U.S. patent application number 11/249119 was filed with the patent office on 2006-05-11 for exercise device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Nautilus, Inc.. Invention is credited to Brent Christopher, Ryan R. Dibble, Eric D. Golesh, Patrick A. Warner.
Application Number | 20060100069 11/249119 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36149014 |
Filed Date | 2006-05-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060100069 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dibble; Ryan R. ; et
al. |
May 11, 2006 |
Exercise device
Abstract
Aspects of the present invention involve an exercise device
configurable to allow a user to perform various exercises. The
exercise devices include an adjustable bench assembly connected
with a frame supporting adjustable arm and cable-pulley assemblies
providing a user interface with a resistance system. In some
embodiments of the invention, the adjustable bench assembly
includes a bench seat and a pivotal back support supported on an
adjustable bench frame. The exercise devices also utilize various
configurations of adjustable arm assemblies that are selectively
positionable for numerous exercises and to suit a user's particular
body size and shape. Other embodiments of the exercise devices
include a resistance system with a transmission supporting a
plurality of resistance packs. The transmission allows a user to
conveniently engage any number of resistance packs to change the
resistance level for a particular exercise.
Inventors: |
Dibble; Ryan R.; (Denver,
CO) ; Warner; Patrick A.; (Boulder, CO) ;
Golesh; Eric D.; (Arvada, CO) ; Christopher;
Brent; (Denver, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DORSEY & WHITNEY, LLP;INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
370 SEVENTEENTH STREET
SUITE 4700
DENVER
CO
80202-5647
US
|
Assignee: |
Nautilus, Inc.
Vancouver
WA
|
Family ID: |
36149014 |
Appl. No.: |
11/249119 |
Filed: |
October 11, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60618131 |
Oct 12, 2004 |
|
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60644110 |
Jan 14, 2005 |
|
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60662808 |
Mar 15, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/98 ;
482/100 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/03566 20130101;
A63B 21/045 20130101; A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 21/4047 20151001;
Y10S 482/908 20130101; A63B 21/4043 20151001; A63B 2225/102
20130101; A63B 21/156 20130101; A63B 23/03525 20130101; A63B
21/00047 20130101; A63B 21/155 20130101; A63B 21/4031 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/098 ;
482/100 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/062 20060101
A63B021/062 |
Claims
1. An exercise device comprising: a frame; an arm bi-directionally
coupled with the frame through a first axle and a second axle; a
first securing mechanism adapted to secure the arm in a first
position relative to the first axle; a second securing mechanism
adapted to secure the arm in a second position relative to the
second axle; and a release mechanism operably coupled with the
first and second securing mechanisms and adapted to simultaneously
activate the securing mechanisms to move the arm about the first
and second axles.
2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the first securing
mechanism comprises a pop pin.
3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the second securing
mechanism comprises a pop pin.
4. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising: a resistance
system supported on the frame; and a cable operably coupling the
arm with the resistance system.
5. The exercise device of claim 4, further comprising: at least one
pulley operably coupled with the cable; a housing rotatably
supporting the at least one pulley; and wherein the housing is
pivotally connected with the arm through the first axle and wherein
the housing is pivotally connected with the frame through the
second axle.
6. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the release mechanism
comprises a lever pivotally connected with the arm.
7. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the release mechanism
comprises a handle slidingly connected with the arm.
8. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a third
securing mechanism adapted to secure the arm in a third position
relative to the frame.
9. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the third securing
mechanism comprises a pop pin.
10. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising: a first
cable connecting the release mechanism with the first securing
mechanism; and a second cable connecting the release mechanism with
the second securing mechanism.
11. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein: the first securing
mechanism comprises a first means for securing the arm in the first
position; and the second securing mechanism comprises a second
means for securing the arm in the second position.
12. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a resistance system
supported on the frame; a first arm assembly operably coupled with
the resistance system and rotatably supported by the frame, the
first arm selectively positionable about a first axis of rotation;
and a second arm assembly operably coupled with the resistance
system and rotatably supported by the frame, the second arm
selectively positionable about a second axis of rotation.
13. The exercise device of claim 12, further comprising: a first
cable operably coupling the first arm assembly with the resistance
system; and a second cable operably coupling the second arm
assembly with the resistance system.
14. The exercise device of claim 12, further comprising: a first
securing mechanism adapted to secure the first arm assembly in a
first pivotal position relative to the first axis of rotation; and
a second securing mechanism adapted to secure the second arm
assembly in a second pivotal position relative to the second axis
of rotation.
15. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the first securing
mechanism comprises a first pop pin; and wherein the second
securing mechanism comprises a second pop pin.
16. The exercise device of claim 14, further comprising: a first
release mechanism supported by the first arm assembly, the first
release mechanism operably coupled with the first securing
mechanism and adapted to activate the first securing mechanism to
allow movement of the first arm assembly about the first axis of
rotation; and a second release mechanism supported by the second
arm assembly, the second release mechanism operably coupled with
the second securing mechanism and adapted to activate the second
securing mechanism to allow movement of the second arm assembly
about the second axis of rotation.
17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the first release
mechanism comprises a first lever and the second release mechanism
comprises a second lever.
18. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a resistance system
supported by the frame; an actuation device operably coupled with
the resistance system; a first cam operably coupled with the
resistance system; a second cam operably coupled with the
resistance system; and a selector mechanism operably coupled with
the first and second cams, the selector mechanism configured to
operably couple the first and second cams with the actuation device
to change the resistance forces from the resistance system exerted
on the actuation device as the actuation device is displaced.
19. The exercise device of claim 18, wherein the actuation device
comprises at least one cable extending from a first end portion to
a second end portion; and wherein the selector mechanism operably
couples the first and second cams with the at least one cable to
change the resistance forces from the resistance system exerted on
the at least one cable as the second end portion of the at least
one cable is displaced.
20. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the actuation device
further comprises a handle connected the first end portion of the
at least one cable.
21. The exercise device of claim 18, when the first cam is operably
coupled with the actuation device, the resistance forces exerted by
the resistance system on actuation device increase as the actuation
device moves from a first position to a second position.
22. The exercise device of claim 18, when the first cam is operably
coupled with the actuation device, the resistance forces exerted by
the resistance system on actuation device decrease as the actuation
device moves from a first position to a second position.
23. The exercise device of claim 18, when the first cam is operably
coupled with the actuation device, the resistance forces exerted by
the resistance system on actuation device remain constant as the
actuation device moves from a first position to a second
position.
24. The exercise device of claim 18, further comprising: an axle
connected with the frame and rotatably supporting the first cam and
the second cam; and wherein the selector mechanism is connected
with the first cam to selectively position the first and second
cams along the length of the axle.
25. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the selector mechanism
comprises: a member connected with the axle; a handle connected
with the first cam; and wherein the knob is adapted to selectively
connect with the member to selectively secure the positions of the
first and second cams along the length of the axle.
26. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a resistance structure
including a plurality of resistance packs; and a selector mechanism
including a plate supporting a plurality of pins, the pins operable
to selectively connect at least one of the plurality of resistance
packs with the selector mechanism.
27. The exercise device of claim 26, wherein the resistance
structure includes an axle connected with the frame and supporting
the plurality of resistance packs; and wherein the each of the
plurality of resistance packs comprises: at least one resistance
element; a housing connected with the at least one resistance
element; a hub connected with the at least one resistance element
and with the axle; and wherein the hub remains stationary as the
housings rotate relative to the axle, causing the resistance
element to stretch.
28. The exercise device of claim 27, wherein the pins on selector
mechanism are adapted to selectively engage apertures in the
housings of the resistance packs to selectively connect at least
one of the plurality of resistance packs with the plate.
29. The exercise device of claim 26, further comprising an
actuation device operably coupled with the selector mechanism.
30. The exercise device of claim 29, wherein the actuation device
comprises at least one cable.
31. An exercise device comprising: a resistance system; an
actuation device; a first pulley rotatably; a first cable operably
coupling the actuation device with the first pulley; a second
pulley; a second cable operably coupling the resistance system with
the second pulley; and a locking member connected with the second
pulley and operable to selectively connect the second pulley with
the first pulley for simultaneous rotation of the first and second
pulleys and to selectively disconnect the second pulley from the
first pulley for independent rotation of the first and second
pulleys.
32. The exercise device of claim 31, wherein the locking member is
slidingly connected with the second pulley.
33. The exercise device of claim 31, wherein the locking member
includes a plurality of studs adapted to selectively engage a
plurality of apertures on the first pulley.
34. The exercise device of claim 31, further comprising a spring
operably connected with the second pulley and the locking member,
the spring biased to force the locking member into engagement with
the first pulley to connect the first pulley with the second
pulley.
35. The exercise device of claim 31, further comprising a knob
connected with the locking member, and wherein when the second
pulley is disconnected from the first pulley, turning the knob
causes the locking member and the second pulley turn, which adjusts
tension of the second cable.
36. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a rail extending from
the frame; a seat movably supported on the rail; at least one
pulley rotatably connected with the seat; a resistance system
supported on the frame; at least one cable defining a first end
portion adapted to connect with the frame and a second end portion
operably coupled with the resistance system; wherein the at least
one cable extends from the first end portion, around the at least
one pulley, and to the second end portion.
37. The exercise device of claim 36, further comprising an
adjustment mechanism adjustably connected with the frame and
adapted to connect with the first end portion of the at least one
cable.
38. The exercise device of claim 37, further comprising a second
rail connected with the frame, and wherein the adjustment mechanism
is movably connected with the second rail.
39. The exercise device of claim 38, further comprising a pop pin
supported on the adjustment mechanism, the pop pin adapted to
selectively engage at least one of a plurality of apertures in the
second rail selectively secure the position of the adjustment
mechanism along the length of the second rail.
40. The exercise device of claim 36, wherein the seat is rollingly
supported on the rail.
41. The exercise device of claim 36, further comprising a housing
connected with seat, the housing including a spool portion adapted
to store a cable wrapped thereon.
42. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a rail extending from
the frame; and a seat movably connected with the rail such that the
seat can move along the length of the rail and pivot relative to
the rail.
43. The exercise device of claim 42, further comprising: a first
securing mechanism adapted to selectively secure the position of
the seat along the length of the rail; and a second securing
mechanism adapted to selectively secure the pivotal position of the
seat relative to the rail.
44. The exercise device of claim 43, further comprising: a back
support pivotally connected with the seat; and a third securing
mechanism adapted to selectively secure the pivotal position of the
back support relative to the seat.
45. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a rail defining a first
end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion
pivotally connected with the frame; a seat supported by the rail; a
support assembly pivotally connected with the second end portion of
the rail and adapted to support the second end portion of the rail
at least at a first height and a second height relative to a
support surface.
46. The exercise device of claim 45, further comprising: a first
member pivotally connected with the rail, the first member
including a first aperture and second aperture; a second member
pivotally connected with the support assembly and adapted to
telescopically connect with the first member; and a pop pin
connected with the second member and adapted to selectively engage
the first aperture to position the second end portion of the rail
at the first height and the second aperture to position the second
end portion of the rail at the second height.
47. The exercise device of claim 45, further comprising: a plate
connected with the rail, the plate including a first aperture and a
second aperture; a pop pin connected with the support assembly and
adapted to selectively engage the first aperture to position the
second end portion of the rail at the first height and the second
aperture to position the second end portion of the rail at the
second height.
48. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a first rail defining a
first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion
pivotally connected with the frame; a seat supported by the first
rail; a second rail defining a first end portion and a second end
portion, the first end portion of the second rail pivotally
connected with the frame below the first end portion of the first
rail; a support assembly pivotally connected with the second end
portion of the first rail and pivotally connected with second end
portion of the second rail, the support assembly adapted to support
the first end portion of the first rail above a support surface;
and wherein when the first rail is pivoted upward from a first
position to a second position toward the frame, the relative motion
between the second end portion of the second rail and the second
end portion of the first rail causes the support assembly to pivot
toward the second rail.
49. The exercise device of claim 48, further comprising a pop pin
supported on the support assembly, the pop pin adapted to
selectively connect the support assembly with the bottom rail to
lock the first rail in the first position and lock the first rail
in the second position.
50. The exercise device of claim 48, further comprising: at least
one pin connected with the support assembly; at least one plate
connected with the second end portion of the second rail, the at
least one plate having a slot adapted to receive the at least one
pin; and wherein the pin moves along the slot when the when the
first rail is pivoted upward from the first position to the second
position.
51. The exercise device of claim 50, wherein the support assembly
can be pivoted relative to the first rail from a first pivotal
position to a second pivotal position to support the second end
portion of the first rail at a first height and a second height
relative to a support surface.
52. The exercise device of claim 51, further comprising a pop pin
supported on the at least one plate, the pop pin adapted to
selectively connect the at least one plate with the support
assembly to selectively lock the first rail in the first position
and the second position and to selectively lock the support
assembly in the first pivotal position and the second pivotal
position.
53. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a leg exercise assembly
pivotally coupled with the frame through an axle; the leg exercise
assembly comprising: a resistance arm pivotally connected with the
axle, the resistance arm including an arm portion extending from an
arcuate pivot portion, the pivot portion including a plurality of
apertures; a first member pivotally connected with the axle
adjacent a first side of the resistance arm; a second member
pivotally connected with the axle adjacent a second side of the
resistance arm; a pop-pin supported between the first member and
the second member and adapted to selectively engage at least one of
the plurality of apertures to connected the first and second
members with the resistance arm; and a housing slidingly connected
with the first member and second member and adapted to selectively
disengage the pop-pin from the at least one of the plurality of
apertures to disconnect the first and second members from the
resistance arm.
54. The exercise device of claim 53, further comprising a pair of
roller pads rotatably connected with the first member and the
second member.
55. The exercise device of claim 53, further comprising a first
roller pad and a second roller pad rotatably connected with the
frame.
56. The exercise device of claim 55, wherein the first and second
roller pads are eccentrically and rotatably supported on a shaft
connected with the frame.
57. The exercise device of claim 56, wherein the first roller pad
defines a first side and a second side, and the first roller pad is
rotatable between a first position wherein the first side is
adjacent the axle and a second position wherein the second side is
adjacent the axle.
58. An exercise device comprising: a frame including at least one
upright member; at least one hook connected with the at least one
upright member; and a selectively removable foot plate assembly
having a main body defining a channel adapted to receive a portion
of the at least one upright member and including a handle bar
adapted to support the foot plate assembly from the at least one
hook.
59. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a rail extending from
the frame; a seat movably supported on the rail, the seat including
a plurality of studs; and a removable seat back adapted to connect
with the seat, the removable seat back including two rails each
having at least two hooks adapted to connect with the plurality of
studs on the seat.
60. An exercise device comprising: a frame; a resistance structure
including an axle supported on the frame; a transmission assembly
coupled with the resistance structure; and a plurality of
resistance packs adapted to receive the axle, each one of the
plurality of resistance packs including a housing adapted to
connect with the transmission assembly and another one of the
plurality of resistance packs.
61. The exercise device of claim 60, wherein the housings of each
one of the plurality of resistance packs includes at least one hook
adapted to selectively connect with a corresponding hook on the
housing of another one of the plurality of resistance packs.
62. The exercise device of claim 60, wherein the each of the
plurality of resistance packs comprises: at least one resistance
element connected with the housing; a hub connected with the at
least one resistance element and with the axle; and wherein the hub
remains stationary as the housings rotate relative to the axle,
causing the resistance element to stretch.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/618,131, filed Oct. 12, 2004; U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/644,110, filed Jan. 14, 2005; and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/662,808, filed on Mar. 15, 2005, all
of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
[0002] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/225,514, titled
"Exercise Device," filed on Mar. 15, 2005; U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,511,
titled "Adjustable Resilient Reel Exerciser," filed on Jan. 23,
1989; U.S. Pat. No. 5,209,461, titled "Elastomeric Torsional Spring
Having Tangential Spokes With Varying Elastic Response," filed on
Jun. 12, 1992; U.S. Pat. No. 6,126,580, titled "Resistance Exercise
Machine With Series Connected Resistance Packs," filed on Aug. 7,
1998; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,440,044, titled "Resistance Mechanism
With Series Connected Resistance Packs," filed on Aug. 1, 2000, are
all hereby incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] a. Field of the Invention
[0004] Aspects of this invention relate to exercise devices, some
more particular aspects involve exercise devices utilizing an
adjustable bench, a user interface with adjustable arms including a
multi-axis release locking mechanism, a resistance system employing
one or more non-linear force curves, a resistance system
transmission, and a cable-pulley assembly.
[0005] b. Background Art
[0006] A variety of exercise devices provide a user with the
ability to perform various different exercises in different
positions. Some of these exercise devices include a bench and a
resistance system connected with a frame. With some exercise
devices, the user exercises by applying force to the resistance
system through a cable and pulley system. The bench and resistance
system may be adjustable to permit the user to sit in different
positions and allow the user to select different levels of
resistance. Portions of the frame as well as the cable and pulley
system may also be adjustable to allow the user to adjust the
exercise device to better conform with the user's size.
[0007] However, on some of these exercise devices, the range of
positions for the frame, bench, and cable and pulley system may be
limited. Thus, these exercise devices confine the range of
positions available for performing various exercises. In addition,
many of the exercise devices may require the user to perform
numerous steps in order to reposition the adjustable components.
Further, these exercise devices only provide the user with the
ability to change the level of resistance and do not allow a user
to vary the force curve.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Aspects of the present invention involve an exercise device
configurable to allow a user to perform various exercises. The
exercise devices described and depicted herein include an
adjustable bench assembly connected with a frame supporting
adjustable arm and cable-pulley assemblies providing a user
interface with a resistance system. The exercise devices can
include various types of resistance systems and/or resistance
packs. Some embodiments of the exercise devices also include a
resistance system with a transmission supporting a plurality of
resistance packs. The transmission allows a user to conveniently
engage any number of resistance packs to change the resistance
level for a particular exercise. In addition to being able to
select the level of resistance, some embodiments of the exercise
devices allow a user to select from a plurality of force curves.
The exercise devices can also utilize various configurations of
adjustable arm assemblies that are selectively positionable for
numerous exercises and to suit a user's particular body size and
shape. One embodiment includes a releasable locking mechanism that
allows the user to simultaneously maneuver an adjustable arm
assembly in more than one range of motion.
[0009] In one aspect of the present invention, an exercise device
includes: a frame; an arm bi-directionally coupled with the frame
through a first axle and a second axle; a first securing mechanism
adapted to secure the arm in a first position relative to the first
axle; a second securing mechanism adapted to secure the arm in a
second position relative to the second axle; and a release
mechanism operably coupled with the first and second securing
mechanisms and adapted to simultaneously activate the securing
mechanisms to move the arm about the first and second axles.
[0010] In another form of the present invention, an exercise device
includes: a frame; a resistance system supported on the frame; a
first arm assembly operably coupled with the resistance system and
rotatably supported by the frame, the first arm selectively
positionable about a first axis of rotation; and a second arm
assembly operably coupled with the resistance system and rotatably
supported by the frame, the second arm selectively positionable
about a second axis of rotation.
[0011] In yet another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a resistance system supported by the
frame; an actuation device operably coupled with the resistance
system; a first cam operably coupled with the resistance system; a
second cam operably coupled with the resistance system; and a
selector mechanism operably coupled with the first and second cams,
the selector mechanism configured to operably couple the first and
second cams with the actuation device to change the resistance
forces from the resistance system exerted on the actuation device
as the actuation device is displaced.
[0012] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a resistance structure including a
plurality of resistance packs; and a selector mechanism including a
plate supporting a plurality of pins, the pins operable to
selectively connect at least one of the plurality of resistance
packs with the selector mechanism.
[0013] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a resistance system; an actuation device; a first
pulley rotatably; a first cable operably coupling the actuation
device with the first pulley; a second pulley; a second cable
operably coupling the resistance system with the second pulley; and
a locking member connected with the second pulley and operable to
selectively connect the second pulley with the first pulley for
simultaneous rotation of the first and second pulleys and to
selectively disconnect the second pulley from the first pulley for
independent rotation of the first and second pulleys.
[0014] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a rail extending from the frame; a seat
movably supported on the rail; at least one pulley rotatably
connected with the seat; a resistance system supported on the
frame; at least one cable defining a first end portion adapted to
connect with the frame and a second end portion operably coupled
with the resistance system; wherein the at least one cable extends
from the first end portion, around the at least one pulley, and to
the second end portion.
[0015] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a rail extending from the frame; and a
seat movably connected with the rail such that the seat can move
along the length of the rail and pivot relative to the rail.
[0016] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a rail defining a first end portion and a
second end portion, the first end portion pivotally connected with
the frame; a seat supported by the rail; a support assembly
pivotally connected with the second end portion of the rail and
adapted to support the second end portion of the rail at least at a
first height and a second height relative to a support surface.
[0017] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a first rail defining a first end portion
and a second end portion, the first end portion pivotally connected
with the frame; a seat supported by the first rail; a second rail
defining a first end portion and a second end portion, the first
end portion of the second rail pivotally connected with the frame
below the first end portion of the first rail; a support assembly
pivotally connected with the second end portion of the first rail
and pivotally connected with second end portion of the second rail,
the support assembly adapted to support the first end portion of
the first rail above a support surface; and wherein when the first
rail is pivoted upward from a first position to a second position
toward the frame, the relative motion between the second end
portion of the second rail and the second end portion of the first
rail causes the support assembly to pivot toward the second
rail.
[0018] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a leg exercise assembly pivotally coupled
with the frame through an axle; the leg exercise assembly
including: a resistance arm pivotally connected with the axle, the
resistance arm including an arm portion extending from an arcuate
pivot portion, the pivot portion including a plurality of
apertures; a first member pivotally connected with the axle
adjacent a first side of the resistance arm; a second member
pivotally connected with the axle adjacent a second side of the
resistance arm; a pop-pin supported between the first member and
the second member and adapted to selectively engage at least one of
the plurality of apertures to connected the first and second
members with the resistance arm; and a housing slidingly connected
with the first member and second member and adapted to selectively
disengage the pop-pin from the at least one of the plurality of
apertures to disconnect the first and second members from the
resistance arm.
[0019] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame including at least one upright member; at
least one hook connected with the at least one upright member; and
a selectively removable foot plate assembly having a main body
defining a channel adapted to receive a portion of the at least one
upright member and including a handle bar adapted to support the
foot plate assembly from the at least one hook.
[0020] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a rail extending from the frame; a seat
movably supported on the rail, the seat including a plurality of
studs; and a removable seat back adapted to connect with the seat,
the removable seat back including two rails each having at least
two hooks adapted to connect with the plurality of studs on the
seat.
[0021] In still another form of the present invention, an exercise
device includes: a frame; a resistance structure including an axle
supported on the frame; a transmission assembly coupled with the
resistance structure; and a plurality of resistance packs adapted
to receive the axle, each one of the plurality of resistance packs
including a housing adapted to connect with the transmission
assembly and another one of the plurality of resistance packs.
[0022] The features, utilities, and advantages of various
embodiments of the invention will be apparent from the following
more particular description of embodiments of the invention as
illustrated in the accompanying drawings and defined in the
appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] FIG. 1A is a front right side isometric view of a first
embodiment of an exercise device according to the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 1B is a rear right side isometric view of the exercise
device of FIG. 1A.
[0025] FIG. 1C is a front left side isometric view of the exercise
device of FIG. 1A.
[0026] FIG. 1D is a rear left side isometric view of the exercise
device of FIG. 1A.
[0027] FIG. 2A is a view of the exercise device configured for leg
extension exercises.
[0028] FIG. 2B is a view of the exercise device configured for leg
curl exercises.
[0029] FIG. 2C is a view of the exercise device configured for leg
press exercises.
[0030] FIG. 2D is a view of the exercise device configured for
pull-down exercises.
[0031] FIG. 2E is a view of the exercise device configured for
bench press exercise.
[0032] FIG. 2F is a view of the exercise device configured for
inclined bench press exercises.
[0033] FIG. 2G is a view of the exercise device configured for
preacher curl exercises.
[0034] FIG. 2H is a view of the exercise device configured in a
storage configuration.
[0035] FIG. 3A is a right rear isometric view of an upright portion
of a main frame of the exercise device.
[0036] FIG. 3B is a bottom isometric view of the base structure of
the main frame.
[0037] FIG. 3C is a partial view of a bench support portion of the
main frame.
[0038] FIG. 4A is a detailed view of bench frame connected with a
bench support portion of a main frame.
[0039] FIG. 4B is a detailed view of a pivotal connection between
the bench frame and the bench support portion of the main
frame.
[0040] FIG. 4C is a detailed right isometric view of a forward
bench support.
[0041] FIG. 4D is a detailed left isometric view of the forward
bench support.
[0042] FIG. 5 is a detailed right side view of a seat rail and a
forward bench support.
[0043] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the forward bench
support depicted in FIG. 5, taken along line 5A-5A.
[0044] FIG. 5AA1 is a cross-sectional view of the forward bench
support depicted in FIG. 5A, taken along line 5AA-5AA showing the
forward bench support in an upright position.
[0045] FIG. 5AA2 is a cross-sectional view of the forward bench
support depicted in FIG. 5A, taken along line 5AA-5AA showing the
forward bench support in a rear pivot position.
[0046] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the seat rail and wheel
car assembly depicted in FIG. 5, taken along line 5B-5B.
[0047] FIG. 5BB is a cross-sectional view of the seat rail and
wheel car assembly depicted in FIG. 5B, taken along line
5BB-5BB.
[0048] FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view of the seat rail and wheel
car assembly depicted in FIG. 5, taken along line 5C-5C.
[0049] FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view of a back support pop-pin
depicted in FIG. 5, taken along line 5D-5D.
[0050] FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of a leg developer
assembly depicted in FIG. 5, taken along line 5E-5E.
[0051] FIG. 5EE is a cross-sectional view of the leg developer
assembly depicted in FIG. 5E, taken along line 5EE-5EE.
[0052] FIG. 5F is a cross-sectional view of a support member and
support post depicted in FIG. 5, taken along line 5F-5F.
[0053] FIG. 6A shows an alternative embodiment of a forward bench
support pivotal connection structure.
[0054] FIG. 6B shows the alternative embodiment of the forward
bench support pivotal connection structure with the forward bench
support in a tilted position.
[0055] FIG. 6C is a left side view of the alternative embodiment of
the forward bench support pivotal connection structure.
[0056] FIG. 6D is a is a cross-sectional view of the forward bench
support pivotal connection structure depicted in FIG. 6C, taken
along line 6D-6D.
[0057] FIG. 6E is a detailed view of the alternative embodiment of
the forward bench support pivotal connection structure being placed
in a storage configuration.
[0058] FIG. 6F is a detailed view of the alternative embodiment of
the forward bench support pivotal connection structure in a storage
configuration.
[0059] FIG. 7A is an exploded view of the wheel car assembly and
the seat rail.
[0060] FIG. 7B is a detailed view of a swivel pop-pin engaged with
a right aperture.
[0061] FIG. 7C is a detailed view of the swivel pop-pin in position
to engage a left aperture.
[0062] FIG. 8A is a front isometric view of a resistance arm
assembly.
[0063] FIG. 8B is a rear isometric view of the resistance arm
assembly.
[0064] FIG. 9 is a detailed view of a left arm assembly.
[0065] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a right arm assembly.
[0066] FIG. 10A1 is a cross-sectional view of the right arm
assembly depicted in FIG. 10, taken along line 10A-10A showing a
slider pop-pin engaged with an upright member.
[0067] FIG. 10A2 is a cross-sectional view of the bench assembly
depicted in FIG. 10, taken along line 10A-10A showing the slider
pop-pin disengaged from the upright member.
[0068] FIG. 11 is a second detailed view of the right arm
assembly.
[0069] FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of the right arm assembly
depicted in FIG. 11, taken along line 11A-11A.
[0070] FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the right arm assembly
depicted in FIG. 11, taken along line 11B-11B.
[0071] FIG. 12A is a view of the right arm assembly in a first
position.
[0072] FIG. 12B is a view of the right arm assembly in a second
position.
[0073] FIG. 12C is a view of the right arm assembly in a third
position.
[0074] FIG. 13A is a detailed view of a first embodiment of a
multi-axis release mechanism.
[0075] FIG. 13B is a detailed view of a second embodiment of a
multi-axis release mechanism.
[0076] FIG. 13C is a detailed view of a third embodiment of a
multi-axis release mechanism.
[0077] FIG. 14 is a detailed view of a right and left cable-pulley
assemblies of the exercise device.
[0078] FIG. 15 is a detailed view of a transmission assembly.
[0079] FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of the transmission
assembly depicted in FIG. 15, taken along line 15A-15A.
[0080] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the transmission
assembly depicted in FIG. 15, taken along line 15B-15B.
[0081] FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view of the transmission
assembly depicted in FIG. 15, taken along line 15C-15C.
[0082] FIG. 15D is a cross-sectional view of the transmission
assembly depicted in FIG. 15, taken along line 15D-15D.
[0083] FIG. 15E is an exploded view of the transmission assembly of
FIG. 15.
[0084] FIG. 16A is a detailed view of the transmission assembly
with a first cam aligned with a third resistance cable.
[0085] FIG. 16B is a detailed view of the transmission assembly
with a second cam aligned with the third resistance cable.
[0086] FIG. 16C is a detailed view of the transmission assembly
with a third cam aligned with the third resistance cable.
[0087] FIG. 16D is a side view of the transmission assembly with a
cam selector mechanism removed.
[0088] FIG. 17A shows one embodiment of the first cam.
[0089] FIG. 17B shows one embodiment of the second cam.
[0090] FIG. 17C shows one embodiment of the third cam.
[0091] FIG. 18A is detailed view of the transmission assembly
showing the third resistance cable wrapped onto the first cam.
[0092] FIG. 18B is a side view of the third cable and first cam
shown in FIG. 18A.
[0093] FIG. 18C is detailed view of the transmission assembly
showing the third resistance cable wrapped onto the second cam.
[0094] FIG. 18D is a side view of the third cable and second cam
shown in FIG. 18C.
[0095] FIG. 18E is detailed view of the transmission assembly
showing the third resistance cable wrapped onto the third cam.
[0096] FIG. 18F is a side view of the third cable and third cam
shown in FIG. 18F.
[0097] FIG. 19A is a front view of a transmission assembly and a
resistance assembly of the right resistance system.
[0098] FIG. 19B is a right isometric view of the transmission
assembly and resistance assembly of FIG. 19A.
[0099] FIG. 19C is a left isometric view of the transmission
assembly and resistance assembly of FIG. 19A.
[0100] FIG. 20A is an isometric view of a first side of a
resistance pack.
[0101] FIG. 20B is a view of the resistance pack in FIG. 20A with
the first side removed.
[0102] FIG. 20C is an isometric view of a second side of the
resistance pack of FIG. 20A.
[0103] FIG. 20D is a view of the resistance pack in FIG. 20C with
the second side removed.
[0104] FIG. 20E is an isometric view of a resistance element.
[0105] FIG. 21A is an isometric view of a resistance assembly.
[0106] FIG. 21B is an isometric view of a resistance assembly.
[0107] FIG. 21C is a detailed view showing a resistance pack
mounted on a splined portion of a resistance axle.
[0108] FIG. 21D is a cross-sectional view of the resistance
assembly depicted in FIG. 21A, taken along line 21D-21D.
[0109] FIG. 21E is a view of the resistance assembly shown in FIG.
21D with a stop rod removed.
[0110] FIG. 22A is an isometric view of an alternative exercise
device.
[0111] FIG. 22B is an exploded view of a shroud cover of the
exercise device of FIG. 22A.
[0112] FIG. 22C is an isometric view of the exercise device of FIG.
22A with a back support configured as a flat bench.
[0113] FIG. 22D is an isometric view of the exercise device of FIG.
22A with the back support in an inclined position.
[0114] FIG. 22E is an isometric view of the exercise device of FIG.
22A configured for leg press exercises with a removable seat back
support.
[0115] FIG. 22F is an isometric view of the exercise device of FIG.
22A configured for preacher curl exercises.
[0116] FIG. 22G is a right side view of the exercise device of FIG.
22A in a storage configuration.
[0117] FIG. 23A is a right side isometric view of a main frame of
the exercise device of FIG. 22A.
[0118] FIG. 23B is a left bottom side isometric view of the main
frame of the exercise device of FIG. 22A.
[0119] FIG. 23C is a detailed view of a lower foot plate assembly
connected with a main frame of the exercise device of FIG. 22A.
[0120] FIG. 24A is an exploded view of a forward bench support.
[0121] FIG. 24B is a left side detailed isometric view of the
forward bench support.
[0122] FIG. 24C is a left side detailed isometric view of the
forward bench support with a left support member removed.
[0123] FIG. 25A is an isometric view of the second exercise device
with an alternative embodiment of a forward bench support.
[0124] FIG. 25B is a right side detailed view of the alternative
forward bench support.
[0125] FIG. 25C is a left side detailed view of the alternative
forward bench support.
[0126] FIG. 25D is a left side view of the second exercise device
with the alternative embodiment of the forward bench support.
[0127] FIG. 25E is a left side view of the second exercise device
with the alternative embodiment of the forward bench support
pivoted in a rearward direction.
[0128] FIG. 25F is a left side view of the second exercise device
with the alternative embodiment of the forward bench support
pivoted in a storage configuration.
[0129] FIG. 26A is a detailed view of a bench seat and seat
rail.
[0130] FIG. 26B is a detailed bottom view of the bench seat of FIG.
26A.
[0131] FIG. 27A is detailed view of a back support.
[0132] FIG. 27B is a detailed view of a rear end portion of a back
support.
[0133] FIG. 28A is a front right isometric view of a removable foot
plate assembly.
[0134] FIG. 28B is a front left isometric view of the removable
foot plate assembly.
[0135] FIG. 28C is a rear right isometric view of the removable
foot plate assembly.
[0136] FIG. 29A is a detailed view of a bench seat with a removable
leg press seat back.
[0137] FIG. 29B is a detailed view of the removable leg press seat
back removed from the bench seat.
[0138] FIG. 29C is left side view of a resistance cable and seat
pulley arrangement.
[0139] FIG. 29D is a detailed isometric view of a bench seat having
cable storage housings.
[0140] FIG. 29E is a is a cross-sectional view of the bench seat
depicted in FIG. 29D, taken along line 29E-29E.
[0141] FIG. 29F is a detailed view of leg press cables in a stored
configuration wrapped around cable storage housings on a bench
seat.
[0142] FIG. 29G is a detailed view of a cable adjustment
mechanism.
[0143] FIG. 30A is an exploded view of a leg developer
assembly.
[0144] FIG. 30B is a detailed exploded view of a leg developer
pop-pin.
[0145] FIG. 30C is a cross sectional view of the leg developer
pop-pin engaged with the resistance member.
[0146] FIG. 30D is a cross sectional view of the leg developer
pop-pin disengaged from the resistance member.
[0147] FIG. 30E is a left side view of the leg developer assembly
configured for leg extension exercises.
[0148] FIG. 30F is a left side view of the leg developer assembly
configured for leg curl exercises.
[0149] FIG. 31A is a detailed view of right and left arm
assemblies.
[0150] FIG. 31B is a detailed view of pop-pin connections for right
and left arm assemblies.
[0151] FIG. 31C is a detailed view of gas springs connected with
the right and left arm assemblies.
[0152] FIG. 31D is a right side view of an upper end portion of an
arm support member.
[0153] FIG. 31E is a front detailed view of the upper end portion
of the arm support member.
[0154] FIG. 31F is a rear detailed view of the upper end portion of
the arm support member.
[0155] FIG. 32A is a right isometric detailed view of right and
left cable-pulley assemblies.
[0156] FIG. 32B is a left isometric detailed view of right and left
cable-pulley assemblies.
[0157] FIG. 32C is a cross sectional view of a linearizing cam and
belt pulley connected with a resistance belt.
[0158] FIG. 33A is an exploded view of tensioning mechanism.
[0159] FIG. 33B is a cross sectional view of a belt pulley.
[0160] FIG. 33C is a cross sectional view of a locking member.
[0161] FIG. 33D is a cross sectional view of the tensioning
mechanism showing the locking member disengaged from the belt
pulley.
[0162] FIG. 33E is a cross sectional view of the tensioning
mechanism showing the locking member engaged with the belt
pulley.
[0163] FIG. 34A is an isometric view of resistance pack showing a
first side.
[0164] FIG. 34B is an isometric view of the resistance pack showing
a second side.
[0165] FIG. 34C is an isometric view of the first side of the
resistance pack shown in a resistance element.
[0166] FIG. 34D is a side view of the resistance element.
[0167] FIG. 34E is an isometric view of a resistance element having
a first width.
[0168] FIG. 34F is an isometric view of a resistance element having
a second width.
[0169] FIG. 34G is an isometric view of a resistance element having
a third width.
[0170] FIG. 35A is a detailed view of a linearizing cam and
resistance axle.
[0171] FIG. 35B is an exploded view of a linearizing cam, first
resistance pack, a clam shell clamp, and resistance axle.
[0172] FIG. 35C is a cross sectional view of the clam shell claim
and resistance axle.
[0173] FIG. 36A is a right side isometric view of a second
alternative exercise device.
[0174] FIG. 36B is a left side isometric view of a second
alternative exercise device.
[0175] FIG. 36C is right front isometric view of a cable-pulley
system of the second alternative exercise device.
[0176] FIG. 36D is left rear isometric view of a cable-pulley
system of the second alternative exercise device.
[0177] FIG. 36E is left front isometric view of a cable-pulley
system of the second alternative exercise device.
[0178] FIG. 36F is right rear isometric view of a cable-pulley
system of the second alternative exercise device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0179] Aspects of the present invention involve an exercise device
configurable to allow a user to perform various exercises. The
exercise devices described and depicted herein include an
adjustable bench assembly connected with a frame supporting
adjustable arm and cable-pulley assemblies providing a user
interface with a resistance system. As discussed below, the
exercise devices can include at least one cable having a first end
connected with a handle or other actuation component and a second
end operably coupled with a resistance pack and/or the resistance
system. It is to be appreciated that other embodiments include more
than one cable to actuate a single resistance pack. In some
embodiments having more than one cable, each cable is operably
coupled with a separate resistance arrangement. The exercise
devices can also include various types of resistance systems and/or
resistance packs. For example, some exercise devices include
resistance packs with torsional springs. With such an exercise
device, one or more resistance packs are actuated by grasping the
handles and pulling the cable such that the torsional springs are
wrapped about an axis to impart resistance against the cable motion
and hence against the user. Other embodiments of the exercise
devices include a resistance system with a transmission supporting
a plurality of resistance packs. The transmission allows a user to
conveniently engage any number of resistance packs to change the
resistance level for a particular exercise.
[0180] In addition to being able to select the level of resistance,
some embodiments of the exercise devices allow a user to select
from a plurality of force curves. A force curve defines how
resistance forces from the resistance system vary through a user's
range of motion during exercise. For example, some embodiments
allow a user to select an increasing resistance which is referred
to as a "progressive" force curve. Other embodiments allow a user
to select a decreasing resistance which is referred to as a
"regressive" force curve. With a progressive force curve, the
exercise resistance increases from the beginning of actuation of a
resistance pack through full actuation. With a regressive force
curve, the exercise resistance decreases from beginning to full
actuation. Still other embodiments provide a variable force curve
having an initially increasing resistance from the beginning of
actuation of a resistance pack and then a decreasing resistance
through full actuation. Yet other embodiments provide a variable
force curve having an initially decreasing resistance from the
beginning of actuation of a resistance pack and then an increasing
resistance through full actuation.
[0181] In some embodiments of the exercise device, the adjustable
bench assembly includes a bench seat and a pivotal back support
supported on an adjustable bench frame that allows the user to
adjust the height and level of the seat and back support as well as
the orientation of the bench relative to the frame. The exercise
devices also utilize various configurations of adjustable arm
assemblies that are selectively positionable for numerous exercises
and to suit a user's particular body size and shape. One embodiment
includes a releasable locking mechanism that allows the user to
simultaneously maneuver an adjustable arm assembly in more than one
range of motion.
[0182] A first embodiment of an exercise device 100 conforming to
aspects of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1A-1D. A frame
102 provides structural support for the exercise device 100. It is
to be appreciated that the frame can take on numerous different
configurations depending on particular arrangements and
combinations of the exercise device. Some particular frame
arrangements are shown and discussed herein with reference to a
bench frame portion 104 and a main frame portion 106. The bench
frame 104 includes an arrangement of frame members for supporting a
seat or bench assembly 108 and various user interface components.
As discussed in more detail below, the bench assembly 108 can be
adjustable and can include a bench 110 with a pivoting back support
112 and an adjustable bench seat 114. In addition, the bench frame
104 can include a seat rail 116 with a first end portion 118
pivotally connected with the main frame 106 and a second end
portion 120 supported by a forward bench support 122. As shown in
FIGS. 1A-1D, the main frame 106 supports adjustments arm assemblies
124, a cable-pulley system 126, a resistance system 128, and other
features. The adjustable arm assemblies 124 and cable-pulley
assembly 126 provide a user interface with the resistance system
128. Although embodiments of the exercise device are described and
depicted has having cable-pulley systems utilizing various types of
pulley arrangements, it is to be appreciated that the exercise
devices are not limited to specific arrangements described and
depicted herein. Further, it is contemplated that the exercise
devices can utilize devices other than pulleys to guide cables,
such as cylinders, rails, and various other mechanisms. In
addition, it is to be appreciated that other embodiments can
include movable pulleys and other similar devices that are guided
along cables or tracks. As discussed in more detail below, each arm
assembly 124 can include a multi-axis release mechanism that allows
a user to simultaneously maneuver each arm assembly in two ranges
of motion. It is to be appreciated that the main frame 106 can
support one or more resistance systems 128. For example, as shown
in FIGS. 1A-1D, the exercise device includes a right resistance
system 130 and a left resistance system 132. Each resistance system
can include a transmission 134 and a resistance assembly 136 having
a plurality of selectable resistance packs 138. As discussed in
more detail below, embodiments of the resistance system can also
include a first selector mechanism 140 operably coupled with the
transmission assembly 134 that allows the user select different
force curves. A second selector mechanism 142 operably coupled with
the resistance assembly 136 allows the user to select a desired
level of resistance.
[0183] With particular respect to the exercise device of FIGS.
2A-2H, to use the exercise device, a user first selects the amount
of resistance and the force curve for a particular exercise. The
user also connects resistance cables 144 extending from the arm
assemblies 124 with an actuation device 146, such as a bar, a leg
developer station, or a handle similar to those shown in FIGS.
2D-2H. Separate actuation devices may be arranged so that each
resistance cable 144 and associated resistance system 130, 132 are
separately actuated by the user, or the cables coupled together, so
that a user actuates both resistance systems simultaneously through
one actuation device. As discussed in more detail below, the
resistance cables 144 are routed through the arm assemblies and
cable-pulley assembly and are operably coupled with the resistance
systems 130, 132. The user then places the bench frame 104, bench
assembly 108, and arm assemblies 124 into desired orientations for
a particular exercise. Next, the user positions his body on the
exercise device 100 and begins exercising by exerting forces
through the actuation devices 146 on the resistance cables. As the
cables 144 are moved in a direction away from ends of the arm
assemblies 124, the resistance systems 130, 132 exert resistance
forces on the cables in an opposing direction. It is to be
appreciated that the order in which the previously described
operations can be performed may vary and should not be construed to
be limited to the order described. Some of the various exercises
that can be performed with the exercise device along with
associated component orientations are also illustrated in FIGS.
2A-2H, discussed below.
[0184] Embodiments of the exercise devices are described herein
with the perspective of a user seated on the bench while facing the
main frame 106 and resistance system 128. For example, components
designated as "right" are on the right side of the exercise device
from the perspective of a user in the previously described
position. In many instances, however, users will operate an
exercise device conforming to some aspect of the invention while
seated facing away from the frame and resistance system, such as
shown in FIG. 2A or not seated at all. As such, aspects of the
invention are not limited to the orientation of a user, and left
and right references are provided merely for the convenience of the
reader.
[0185] FIGS. 2A-2H illustrate the bench frame 104 in various
orientations. As introduced above, the forward bench support 122 is
pivotally connected with the seat rail 116 to allow a user to
selectively adjust the level and height of the seat rail. For
example, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the forward bench support 122 is
substantially vertical with respect to the support surface, which
causes the second end portion 120 of the seat rail 116 to be
elevated relative to the first end portion 118 of the seat rail.
The orientations shown in FIGS. 2A-2C provide proper clearance for
operation of various types of actuation devices 146, such as a leg
developer assembly 148 fitted to a forward portion of the bench
frame 104. The leg developer assembly can be configured to allow a
user to perform leg extensions, leg curls, and other leg exercises.
As shown in FIGS. 2D-2F, a bottom portion of the forward bench
support 122 is moved rearwardly such that the forward bench support
is tilted with respect to the support surface. As such, the second
end portion 120 of the seat rail 116 is pivoted downward from the
position of FIGS. 2A-2C to be substantially level with respect to
the support surface. The orientations shown in FIGS. 2D-2F and
others, provides a substantially level seat rail 116, which is
advantageous for performing back squats, rowing, and other
exercises where the bench seat 114 moves along the rail 116 during
exercise. The substantially level seat rail is also useful in
exercises where the seat is stationary. Thus, FIGS. 2A-2H
illustrate various use configurations of the bench.
[0186] As discussed in more detail below, the bench frame can also
be configured to allow a user to place the exercise device in a
storage configuration. For example, as shown in FIG. 2H, the
exercise device can be placed in a storage configuration by
pivoting the second end portion 120 of the seat rail 116 upward
toward the main frame 106 until the seat rail is substantially
vertical with respect to the support surface. As discussed in more
detail below, the seat rail 116 can also be selectively locked in
the storage position.
[0187] As previously mentioned, the back support 112 and the bench
seat 114 can be individually and collectively adjustable. For
example, the bench seat 114 may be rollingly coupled with the seat
rail 116 such that the bench seat can roll back and forth along the
length of the seat rail. Additionally, the back support 112 may be
selectively locked in various locations relative to the seat rail.
For example, FIGS. 2A, 2E, and 2F show the bench seat 114
selectively locked into various positions along the length of the
seat rail 116. Embodiments of the exercise device also allows the
user to configure the bench seat 114 to roll freely back and forth
along the seat rail. In addition, some embodiments of the bench
seat 114 can also selectively rotate or swivel with respect to the
seat rail. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the bench seat 114 is
forward the back support 112 so that a user may sit in a forward
direction away from the main frame 106. In contrast, FIG. 2L shows
the seat 114 rotated 180.degree. with the back support 112 forward
the bench seat so that the user may sit in a rearward direction
toward the main frame 106. Further, as the back support 112 can
also be tilted or pivoted with respect to the seat rail 116 and
bench seat 114. For example, FIGS. 2A and 2E show the back support
112 locked in a position that is substantially orthogonal with
respect to the bench seat 114, whereas FIG. 2B shows the back
support 112 adjacent the seat rail 116 wherein the back support and
bench seat collectively define a flat bench. Detailed descriptions
related to component structures of the exercise device that provide
the various reconfiguration capabilities of the exercise device are
provided below.
[0188] As previously mentioned, the main frame 106 of the exercise
device 100 supports the resistance system 128, the adjustable arm
assemblies 124, and the cable-pulley system 126. Further, the main
frame 106 pivotally supports the first end portion 118 of the seat
rail 116. As shown in FIGS. 3A-3C and others, the main frame 106
includes an upright structure 150 supported by a base structure
152. The base structure 152 includes a platform plate 154 supported
on a substantially rectangular-shaped base frame 156. The base
frame 156 includes front and rear cross members 158, 160 connected
with and separated by right and left base members 162, 164. The
platform plate 154 is supported on upper surfaces of forward end
portions of the right and left base members 162, 164 as well as an
upper surface of the front cross member 158. The base frame 156
also includes a plate support cross member 166 connected between
the right and left base members supporting a rear end portion of
the platform plate 154. Right and left plate support members 168,
170 extend between the front cross member 158 and the plate support
cross member 166 provide additional support to the platform plate
154.
[0189] As shown in FIG. 3A, right and left wheels 172, 174 are
rotatably connected with the rear cross member 160 that allow a
user to maneuver the exercise device along a support surface from
one location to another. Although the exercise device includes
wheels, it is to be appreciated that the exercise device can also
include rollers, skid plates, or other components to assist with
maneuvering the exercise device. When the main frame 106 is
supported by the base frame 156, the wheels are positioned adjacent
to and slightly above the support surface. To move the exercise
device from one location to another, a user can first place the
exercise device 100 in the storage configuration shown in FIG. 2H.
Once in the storage configuration, the user can pivot the main
frame 106 rearward to bring the wheels 172, 174 into engagement
with the support surface. The user can then roll the exercise
device 100 along the support surface to a desired location.
[0190] As previously mentioned, the resistance system 128 is
connected with and supported by the main frame 106. More
particularly, the upright structure 150 of the main frame includes
a resistance support portion 176 defined by an arrangement of frame
members for supporting the resistance system 128. As shown in FIG.
3A, the resistance support portion 176 includes a right rear
upright member 178 and a left rear upright member 180 connected the
rear cross member 160 on the base frame 156. The right rear upright
member 178 and the left rear upright member 180 extend upward from
the rear cross member 160 and connect with an upper cross member
182. Front and rear base plates 184 are connected with front and
rear surfaces of the rear upright members 178, 180 and the rear
cross member 160 to provide additional strength to the connections
of these members. Front and rear upper cross plates 186 are
connected with upper end portions of the right and left rear
upright members 178, 180 to provide additional stability the rear
upright members. A transmission support member 188 extending upward
and forward from the upper cross member 182 supports a lower end
portion of a rear upright pulley support member 190. As discussed
in more detail below, the combination of the transmission support
member 188 and the right and left rear upright members 178, 180
support the resistance system 128 as well as a portion of the
cable-pulley system 126.
[0191] As shown in FIG. 3A, the main frame 106 further includes
right and left upright members 192, 194 that support the arm
assemblies. The right and left upright members 192, 194 are
connected with end extending upward from the right and left base
members 162, 164 of the base frame 156, respectively. For
additional structural stability, a pair of right support brackets
196 and a pair of left support brackets 198 are connected with
lower end portions of the right and left upright members 192, 194
and the base frame 156. In addition, front and rear upper pulley
plates 200, 202 are connected between upper end portions of the
right and left upright members. As discussed in more detail below,
the front and rear pulley plates rotatably support four pulleys
forming a portion of the cable-pulley system 126.
[0192] As previously mentioned, the first end portion 118 of the
seat rail 116 is pivotally connected with the main frame 106. More
particularly, the seat rail 116 is pivotally connected with a bench
support portion 204 of the main frame 106, which is defined by an
arrangement of frame members. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C, the
bench support portion 204 includes a forward upright member 206
connected with and extending upward from the base structure 152. A
bottom end portion of the forward upright member 206 is connected
with a base connection member 208, which in turn, is connected with
the plate support cross member 166. The base connection member 208
defines a substantially U-shaped cross section defined by front and
rear sides 210, 212 connected with a top side 214. When the base
connection member 208 is connected with the plate support cross
member 166, the front, rear, and top sides of the base connection
member 208 are positioned adjacent to corresponding sides of the
plate support cross member. As discussed in more detail below, the
bench frame 104 is pivotally connected with the forward upright
member 206.
[0193] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C, the bench support portion 204
of the main frame 106 also supports right and left foot plates 216,
218. The foot plates provide platforms upon which a user can place
his feet when performing various exercises, such as leg press
exercises as shown in FIG. 2C. Referring to FIG. 3A, the bench
support portion 204 includes a forward foot plate support member
220 connected with an upper end portion of the forward upright
member 206. The forward foot plate support member 220 extends
rearward from the forward upright member 206 and is connected with
a bottom end portion of a foot plate upright member 222. The foot
plate upright member extends upward and connects with a forward end
portion of a rear foot plate support member 224. In turn, the rear
foot plate support member 224 extends rearwardly from an upper end
portion of the foot plate upright member 222 and connects with the
front upper cross plate 186 on the resistance support portion 176
of the main frame 106. The right and left foot plates 216, 218 are
connected with and are supported by right and left foot plate
support members 226, 228 extending outward from opposing right and
left sides of the rear foot plate support member 224. To provide
additional support to the right and left foot plate support
members, angle brackets 230 are connected with the rear foot plate
support member 224 and the right and left foot plate support
members 226, 228.
[0194] As previously mentioned, the bench assembly 108 and bench
frame 104 can be adjustable to support a user's body in different
positions while performing various types of exercises. As shown in
FIGS. 2A-2H, the bench assembly 108 includes the bench 110 with the
back support 112 and the bench seat 114 adjustably connected with
the bench frame 104. The incline of bench frame 104 can be adjusted
relative to the support surface, and the incline of the back
support 112 can be adjusted relative to the bench seat 114. The
bench assembly 108 further provides the user with the ability to
swivel the bench seat. The user can also selectively adjust the
position of the seat along the length of the seat rail 116 and also
configure the seat to freely roll back and forth along the seat
rail.
[0195] As previously mentioned, the first end portion 118 of the
seat rail 116 is pivotally connected with the forward upright
member 206 and can be selectively placed in an upward storage
configuration and a downward operating configuration. More
particularly, the seat rail 116 is pivotally connected with the
forward upright member 206 through a first seat rail axle 232. As
shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, right and left seat rail axle brackets
236, 238 extending from the first end portion 118 of the seat rail
116 include apertures adapted to receive opposing end portions of
the first seat rail axle 232, which, in turn, is supported by an
upper end portion of the forward upright member 222. As such, the
seat rail can pivot about the first rail axle to place the seat
rail in the operating configuration and the storage configuration.
In some embodiments of the exercise device, the bench frame 104 can
be selectively locked in the operating and storage configurations.
For example, as shown in FIG. 4B, the exercise device includes
first seat rail pop-pin 234 adapted to engage the seat rail 116 to
lock the seat rail in the operating and storage configurations.
More particularly, the first seat rail pop-pin 234 is supported by
the forward foot plate support member 220 and is adapted to
selectively engage a first aperture 240 and a second aperture 242
in the left seat rail axle bracket 238.
[0196] When the bench frame 104 is in the operative position, as
shown in FIGS. 2D and 4B for example, the first seat rail pop-pin
234 is engaged with the first aperture 240 in the left seat rail
axle bracket 238. As such, the seat rail 116 is a locked in a
downward position that is substantially horizontal with respect to
the support surface. In some embodiments that allow the seat rail
incline to be adjusted while in the operating configuration, the
first aperture 240 can be elongated to allow the seat rail 116 to
pivot slightly to allow the seat rail incline to be adjusted. To
place the bench frame in the storage configuration, as shown in
FIG. 2H for example, a user disengages the first seat rail pop-pin
234 from the first aperture 240 and lifts the second end portion
120 of the seat rail 116 upward. As the second end portion of the
seat rail is lifted upward, the seat rail 116 pivots about the
first seat rail axle 232 until the first seat rail pop-pin 234
engages the second aperture 242 on the left seat rail axle bracket
238. Once the first seat rail pop-pin engages the second aperture,
the seat rail is held in a substantially vertical position with
respect to the support surface. To return the bench frame to the
operative position, the first seat rail pop-pin 234 is disengaged
from the second aperture 242 and the second end portion 120 of the
seat rail is lowered until the first seat rail pop-pin engages the
first aperture 240.
[0197] As previously mentioned, the incline of the bench frame on
some embodiments of the exercise device can be adjusted while in
the operating configuration. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4C and
4D, the forward bench support 122 of the exercise device 100 is
pivotally connected with and supports the second end portion 120 of
the seat rail 116 to allow the incline of the seat rail to be
adjusted. As mentioned above with respect to FIGS. 2A-2C, when the
forward bench support 122 is substantially vertical with respect to
the support surface, the second end portion 120 of the seat rail
116 is elevated relative to the first end portion 118 of the seat
rail. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 2E-2F, when the forward
bench support 122 is pivoted rearwardly such that the forward bench
support is tilted with respect to the support surface, the second
end portion 120 of the seat rail 116 is pivoted downward from the
position of FIGS. 2A-2C to be substantially level with respect to
the support surface.
[0198] As shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, the forward bench 122 support
includes right and left support members 244, 246 connected with a
cross member 248. An upper cross plate 250 and a lower cross plate
252 are connected with front edges of lower and upper end portions,
respectively, of the right and left support members. A pair of end
caps 254 are connected with opposing end portions of the cross
member 248 and are adapted to engage the support surface. The right
and left support members 244, 246 extend upward from the cross
member and are pivotally connected with the second end portion 120
of the seat rail 116 through a second seat rail axle 256. More
particularly, the support members 244, 246 include apertures
adapted to receive opposing end portions of the second seat rail
axle 256. The second seat rail axle 256, in turn, is supported by
an axle support member 258 extending downward from the second end
portion 120 of the seat rail 116. As such, the forward bench
support can pivot about the second seat rail axle. As shown in
FIGS. 4C and 4D, right and left leg station pulleys 260, 262 are
rotatably supported between the right and left support members 244,
246 of the forward bench support 122. As discussed in more detail
below, the resistance cables 144 can extend from the arm assemblies
124 and partially around the leg station pulleys to connect with
various types of actuation devices 146, such as the leg developer
assembly 148.
[0199] The exercise device 100 can also be configured with a
pivotal connection structure 264 that limits the pivotal movement
of the forward bench support 122 as well as provide for selected
pivotal positioning of the forward bench support. For example, as
shown in FIGS. 4C, 4D, and 5A-5AA2, the pivotal connection
structure 264 includes an arcuate plate 266 adapted to engage the
upper cross plate 250 to limit the range of pivotal movement of the
forward bench support. The arcuate plate 266 extends downward from
the axle support member 258 between the right and left support
members 244, 246. As shown in FIGS. 5AA1 and 5AA2, the arcuate
plate 266 includes a curved lower edge 268 with a forward stop 270
and rear stop 272. The forward stop 270 is adapted to engage a
front side 274 of the upper cross plate 250 when the forward bench
support 122 is pivoted forward as shown in FIG. 5AA1. The rear stop
272 is adapted to engage a rear side 276 of the upper cross plate
250 when the bench support is pivoted rearward, as shown in FIG.
5AA2.
[0200] As shown in FIGS. 5-5AA2, the pivotal connection structure
264 includes a second seat rail pop-pin 278 that provides for
selected pivotal positioning of the forward bench support 122. More
particularly, the second seat rail pop-pin 278 allows a user to
selectively position the second end portion 120 of the seat rail
116 in an inclined position shown for example in FIG. 2C, and a
substantially level position shown in FIG. 2D. The second seat rail
pop-pin 278 is supported by the left support member 246 and is
adapted to selectively engage a forward aperture 280 and a rear
aperture 282 in the arcuate plate 266.
[0201] Referring to FIGS. 2C and 5AA1, when the bench frame 104 is
in the inclined position, the second seat rail pop-pin 278 is
engaged with the forward aperture 280 on the arcuate plate 266. In
addition, the forward stop 270 on the arcuate plate 266 is in
contact with or in close proximity with the front side 274 of the
upper cross plate 250. The height of the right and left support
members 244, 246 and the cross member 248 elevate the second end
portion 120 of the seat rail 116 with respect to the first end
portion 118 of the seat rail 116, effectively creating an incline
from the second end portion to the first end portion. To place the
bench frame 104 in a substantially level position as shown in FIGS.
2D and 5AA2, the second seat rail pop-pin is disengaged from the
forward aperture 280, which allows the support members 244, 246 and
cross member 248 to pivot rearward toward the main frame 106.
Movement of the cross member 248 in a rearward direction causes the
right and left support members 244, 246 to pivot about the second
seat rail axle 256 until the second seat rail pop-pin 278 engages
the rear aperture 282 on the arcuate plate 266. Once the second
seat rail pop-pin engages the rear aperture, the right and left
support members are held in a tilted position with respect to the
support surface. In addition, the rear stop 272 on the arcuate
plate 266 is in contact with or in close proximity with the rear
side 276 of the upper cross plate 250. The tilting of the right and
left support members 244, 246 acts to lower the second end portion
120 of the seat rail 116 with respect to the first end portion 118
such that the first and second end portions are located at
substantially the same height above the support surface. To return
the bench frame 104 to the inclined position, the second seat rail
pop-pin 278 is disengaged from the rear aperture 282 and the cross
member 248 is moved in a forward direction until the second seat
rail pop-pin 278 engages the forward aperture 280 in the arcuate
plate 266.
[0202] An alternative embodiment of a pivotal connection structure
284 between the seat rail and the forward bench support 122 is
shown in FIGS. 6A-6E. The pivotal connection structure 284 allows
the forward bench support 122 to pivot toward the seat rail 116
when the bench frame 104 is placed in the upward storage
configuration. In addition, the pivotal connection structure 284
provides for selective adjustment of the seat rail incline. The
pivotal connection structure 284 includes a pivot adjustment
mechanism 286 connected with the forward bench support 122 and the
seat rail 116. The pivot adjustment mechanism 286 provides for
selective adjustment of pivotal position of the forward bench
support 122 relative to seat rail 116. The pivot adjustment
mechanism 286 includes a first member 288 pivotally connected with
a support bracket 290 extending downward from the seat rail 116. A
second member 292 is pivotally connected between the right and left
support members 244, 246 below the second seat rail axle 256. The
second member 292 is adapted to telescopically receive the first
member 288. A pop-pin 294 supported on the second member 292 is
adapted to engage apertures 296 along the length of the first
member 288. The pop-pin 294 allows the pivotal position of the
forward bench support 122 to be selectively adjusted relative to
the seat rail 116. For example, when the pop-pin 294 is disengaged
from the apertures 296 in the first member 288, the forward bench
support 122 can pivot about the second seat rail axle 256. As the
forward bench support 122 pivots rearward and forward about the
second seat rail axle, the first member 288 slides into and out of,
respectively, the second member 292. When the forward bench support
122 is placed in the desired pivotal position, the pop-pin 294 is
engaged with one of the apertures 296 on the first member 288,
locking the first and second members in position relative to each
other. In turn, the forward bench support 122 is locked into the
desired pivotal position relative to the seat rail 116. It is to be
appreciated that the second member can include various numbers of
apertures to provide for numerous selectable pivotal forward bench
support positions. In addition, as previously mentioned, the first
and second members 288, 292 can also be configured to allow the
forward bench support 122 to pivot about the second seat rail axle
256 to limit the amount the forward bench support protrudes from
the seat rail 116 when the seat rail is placed in the storage
configuration, as shown in FIGS. 6E and 6F. In particular, FIG. 6E
shows the forward bench support being folded upward toward the seat
rail and FIG. 6F shows the forward bench support folded with the
seat rail in an upright storage configuration.
[0203] As previously mentioned, the bench seat 114 can be
adjustably connected with the bench frame 104 to allow the bench
seat to move along the length of the seat rail 116 as well as
swivel relative to the seat rail. More particularly, the bench seat
114 is movably coupled with the seat rail 116 through a wheel car
assembly 298 that allows a user to roll the bench seat back and
forth along the length of the seat rail. As shown in FIGS. 5B, 5BB
and 7A, the wheel car assembly 298 includes a body 300 having a
lower portion 302 connected with a flat upper portion 304 through a
relatively narrow middle portion 306. The lower portion 302 defines
a generally upside down U-shaped cross section with a right side
308 and a left side 310 connected with and separated by a top side
312. The right side 308 of the lower portion 302 rotatably supports
three right side wheels 314, and the left side 310 of the lower
portion 302 rotatably supports three left side wheels 316. The top
side 312 of the lower portion 302 rotatably supports four center
wheels 318 having an axis of rotation that is substantially
orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the side wheels. As shown in
FIG. 7A, the seat rail 116 is adapted to receive the wheels on the
wheel car assembly 298.
[0204] Referring to FIGS. 5B and 7A, the seat rail 116 defines a
generally rectangular cross section having a relatively long top
and bottom sides 320, 322 connected with and separated by
relatively short right and left sides 324, 326. A slot 328
extending the length of the top side 320 the seat rail 116 defines
a right top ledge 330 and left top ledge 332. A track member 334
having a generally H-shaped cross section defined by a right side
336 and a left side 338 connected with and separated by a medial
side 340 extends the length of the bottom side 322 of the rail 116.
A right track 342 is defined between the right side 324 of the seat
rail 116 and the right side 336 of the track member 334 and is
adapted to rollingly receive the three right side wheels 314 on the
wheel car 298. Correspondingly, a left track 344 is defined between
the left side 326 of the seat rail 116 and the left side 338 of the
track member 334 and is adapted to receive the three left side
wheels 316 of the wheel car 298. In addition, a center track 346
defined between the right side 336, left side 338, and medial side
348 of the track member 334 receives the four center wheels
318.
[0205] Referring to FIG. 5B, the vertical distance between the
bottom side 322 and the right top ledge 330 and the left top ledge
332 of the seat rail 116 is greater than the diameters of the right
and left side wheels 314, 316. As such, as the wheel car 298 moves
along the length of the seat rail 116, each of the six side wheels
roll along either the bottom side 322 or the top side 320 of the
seat rail 116. The wheel car assembly 298 is normally supported by
the six side wheels 314, 316, which, in turn, are rollingly
supported by the bottom side 322 of the seat rail 116. However, if
the wheel car assembly 298 is subjected to forces that cause the
body 300 of the wheel car assembly to tip backward, forward, or
side-to-side, some of the side wheels can disengage the bottom side
322 and engage the top side 320 of the seat rail 116. As shown in
FIG. 5B, the distance between the right and left sides 336, 338 of
the track member 334 is larger than the diameters of the four
center wheels 318. As such, when the wheel car 298 is subjected to
forces that cause the wheel car assembly to move from side-to-side,
some of the center wheels 318 can engage the right 336 and/or left
sides 338 of the track member 334.
[0206] As previously mentioned, the bench seat 114 can be
configured to either roll freely along the length of the seat rail
116, or can be selectively locked into various positions along the
length of the seat rail. More particularly, the wheel car assembly
298 can include a bench seat pop-pin 348 adapted to selectively
engage apertures 350 in the seat rail 116 to selectively lock the
bench seat into a desired positioned along the length of the seat
rail. As shown in FIG. 5B, the narrow middle portion 306 of the
wheel car assembly 298 extends upward from the lower portion 302
and through the slot 328 in top side 320 of the seat rail 116. The
flat upper portion 304 of the wheel car 298 supports a lower
platform 352, which includes a flange 354 extending downward
adjacent to the right side 324 of the seat rail 116. The downwardly
extending flange 354 supports the bench seat pop-pin 348, which is
adapted to engage one of the plurality of apertures 350 located in
the right side 324 of the side rail 116. As previously mentioned,
the bench seat pop-pin allows a user to selectively lock wheel car
assembly 298 and bench seat 114 into various positions along the
length of the seat rail 116. For example, the bench seat pop-pin
can be disengaged from an aperture on the seat rail, which allows
the bench seat to roll backward or forward to a desired position
along the length of the seat rail. Once the bench seat is rolled to
a desired location along the seat rail, the bench seat pop-pin be
engaged with another aperture in the seat rail to lock the bench
seat into the desired position.
[0207] As shown in FIGS. 5B and 7B, the bench seat pop-pin can
include a cylindrically-shaped body 356 housing a spring 358
operably connected with a pin 360. The spring 358 acts to force the
pin 360 against the right side 324 of the seat rail 116. The pin
360 can be disengaged from the seat rail 116 by pulling on a ring
362 connected with the pin in a direction away from the right side
324 of the seat rail 116. When moving the bench seat 114 from a
first location to a second along the seat rail, a user can pull the
ring 362 to disengage the pin 360 from the seat rail 116. While
holding the pin in disengagement from the seat rail, the bench seat
114 and wheel car assembly 298 can be rolled to the second
location. Once the bench seat is in the second location, the ring
362 can be released, which allows the spring 358 to force the pin
360 back into engagement with the seat rail 116. If the pin 360 is
aligned with one of the apertures 350 in the right side of the seat
rail, the pin will extend into one of the apertures, locking the
bench seat into the second position. If the pin 360 is not aligned
with one of the apertures 350, the pin will be forced against the
right side 324 of the seat rail 116. The bench seat 114 can then be
rolled backward and forward until the pin 360 is aligned with and
forced into one of the apertures 350.
[0208] As previously mentioned, the bench seat 114 can also be
configured to roll freely along the seat rail 116. More
particularly, the bench seat pop-pin 348 can be selectively
configured to disable the spring-loaded feature so the pin 360 is
not forced against the right side 324 of the seat rail 116. As
shown in FIG. 7B, the body 356 of the bench seat pop-pin 348
includes a first pair of channels 364 and a second pair of channels
366 extending inward from a distal end portion of the body. The
channels 364, 366 are adapted to receive a portion of the ring 362
and act to limit the distance that the pin 360 can extend from the
body 356 toward the seat rail 116. A user can align the ring with
either pair of channels by pulling the ring 362 outward from the
body 356 and turning the ring into alignment with the desired pair
of channels. As shown in FIGS. 5B and 7B, when the ring 362 is
aligned to be received within the first pair of channels 364, the
pin can extend far enough toward the seat rail 116 to engage one of
the apertures 350, which prevents the bench seat 114 from freely
rolling along the seat rail. The first pair of channels 364 are
longer than the second pair of channels 366. As such, when the ring
is aligned to be received within the second pair of channels 366,
the pin 360 does not extend far enough from the body to engage the
seat rail 116. Therefore, when the ring is received within the
second pair of channels 366, the bench seat 114 can freely roll
back and forth along the seat rail 116 without the spring 358
forcing the pin 360 against the right side 324 of the seat rail 116
and into one of the apertures 350.
[0209] As previously mentioned, the bench seat 114 can also be
configured to swivel with respect to the seat rail 116. As shown in
FIGS. 5B and 5BB, the bench seat 114 is connected with the lower
platform 352 on the wheel car assembly 298 through a swivel plate
368 rotatably connected with a bench seat axle 370. More
particularly, the bench seat 114 includes a padded portion 372
connected with and supported on a bench seat plate 374. As shown in
FIGS. 5B, 5BB, and 7B, the bench seat plate, in turn, is supported
on a bench seat support structure 376, which is supported by and
connected with the swivel plate 368. The bench seat support
structure 376 includes a first seat bracket 378 and a second seat
bracket 380 connected with and separated by a center plate 382. The
bench seat support structure 376 also includes a
cylindrically-shaped sleeve 384 extending between and connected
with the swivel plate 368 and the center plate 382. The sleeve 384
is adapted receive the bench seat axle 370 and associated bearings
386. As shown in FIG. 5B, the bench seat axle 370 extends upward
from the lower platform 352, through an aperture in the swivel
plate 368, and through the bearings 368 inside the sleeve 384 of
the bench seat support structure 376. The bench seat support
structure is also connected with the bench seat axle 370 by a bolt
388 extending through a top washer 390 and threaded into the bench
seat axle 370. As such, the bench seat 114, swivel plate 368, and
seat support structure 376 are can rotate together around the bench
seat axle 370.
[0210] The bench seat 114 can be configured to freely swivel around
the bench seat axle 370 and can also be selectively locked into a
desired pivotal position. As shown in FIGS. 5B, 5C, 7B, and 7C, a
swivel pop-pin 392 mounted on the swivel plate 368 is adapted to
engage the lower platform 352 to provide for selective adjustment
of the rotational position (i.e. swivel) of the bench seat 114 with
respect to the seat rail 116. The swivel pop-pin includes a body
394 housing a pin 396 adapted to engage a right aperture 398 and a
left aperture 400 in the lower platform 352. A handle 402 connected
with the pin 396 can be moved up and down to disengage and engage
the pin, respectively, with the lower platform 352. When the swivel
pop-pin 392 is engaged with the left aperture 400 in the lower
platform 352 as shown in FIG. 7C, a user seated on the bench seat
114 may be facing in a forward direction away from the main frame
106 of the exercise device 100, such as shown in FIG. 2A. To change
the orientation of the bench seat, a user can move the handle 402
on the swivel pop-pin 392 upward to disengage the pin 396 from the
left aperture 400 on the lower platform 352, which allows the bench
seat 114 to rotate around the bench seat axle 370. Once the bench
seat is rotated to align the pin 396 with the right aperture 398 in
the lower platform 352, the handle 402 can be moved downward to
insert the pin into the right aperture, locking the bench seat into
position. Once the swivel pop-pin is engaged with the right
aperture as shown in FIG. 7B, the user may be facing in a rearward
direction toward the frame of the exercise device, such as shown in
FIG. 2C. Although the lower platform is depicted and described with
right and left apertures, it is to be appreciated that the lower
platform can include additional apertures adapted to receive the
swivel pop-pin to provide additional rotational positions of the
bench seat.
[0211] The bench seat 114 can also be configured to pivot freely
about the bench seat axle without the swivel pop-pin engaging the
lower platform 352. More particularly, the swivel pop-pin 392 can
be selectively configured to maintain to the position of the handle
402 to hold the pin 396 out of engagement with the lower platform
352. As shown in FIG. 7C, the handle 402 extends through a slot 404
in the body 394 of the swivel pop-pin 392. The slot 404 includes a
first downward extending channel 406 and a second downward
extending channel 408. The channels 406, 408 are adapted to support
the vertical position of handle 402 and act to limit the distance
the pin 396 can extend from the body 394 toward the lower platform
352. A user can move the handle 402 into either channel by lifting
the handle upward and moving the handle along the slot 404 and into
alignment with the desired channel. As shown in FIG. 7B, when the
handle is received within the first channel 406, the pin can extend
far enough toward the lower platform 352 to engage one of the
apertures 398, 400, which prevents the bench seat 114 from freely
pivoting about the bench seat axle 370. The first channel 406 is
longer than the second channel 408. As such, when the handle is
received within the second channel 408, the pin 396 does not extend
far enough from the body to engage the lower platform 352, as shown
in FIG. 7C. Therefore, when the handle is received within the
second channel, the bench seat can freely pivot about the bench
seat axle without the pin engaging the lower platform and/or the
right and left apertures.
[0212] As previously mentioned, the back support 112 of the bench
assembly can be configured with a selectively adjustable incline
relative to the bench seat 114. More particularly, the back support
112 is pivotally connected with bench seat 114 and can include a
back support pop-pin 410 to selectively lock the back support into
a desired inclination. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 5BB, the back
support 112 includes a padded portion 412 mounted on a back support
rail 414, which is pivotally connected with the bench seat support
structure 376 through a seat back axle 416. As shown in FIGS. 5B
and 5BB, the seat back axle 416 is connected with and extends
between the first seat bracket 378 and the second seat bracket 380.
As shown in FIG. 5, the back support pop-pin is supported by an
extended portion 418 of the first seat bracket 378. The back
support pop-pin is adapted to engage apertures 420 an arcuate plate
422 extending rearwardly from the back support rail 414. As such,
the arcuate plate 422 pivots up and down with the back support rail
414. As shown in FIG. 1D, the arcuate plate 414 is aligned to be
received within the slot 328 in top side 320 of the seat rail 116
as the back support is pivoted downward.
[0213] As previously mentioned, the back support pop-pin 410
provides for selective adjustment of the degree of incline of the
back support 112 relative to the bench seat 114. As shown in FIGS.
5 and 5D, the back support pop-pin 410 can include a body 424
housing a spring 426 operably coupled with a pin 428. The spring
426 acts to force the pin 428 against the arcuate plate 422 on the
back support rail 414. The pin 428 can be disengaged from the
arcuate plate 422 by pulling on a handle 430 connected with the pin
in a direction away from the arcuate plate 422. When pivoting the
back support 112 from a first incline to a second incline, a user
can pull the handle 430 to disengage the pin 428 from the arcuate
plate 422. While holding the pin in disengagement from the arcuate
plate, the back support 112 can be pivoted about the seat back axle
416 to the second incline position. Once the back support is in the
second incline position, the handle 430 can be released, which
allows the spring 426 to force the pin 428 back into engagement
with the arcuate plate 422. If the pin 428 is aligned with one of
the apertures 420 in the arcuate plate 422, the pin will extend
into one of the apertures, locking the back support 112 into the
second level of incline. If the pin is not aligned with one of the
apertures, the pin will be forced against the arcuate plate 422.
The back support 112 can then be pivoted up and down until the pin
428 is aligned with and forced into one of the apertures 420.
[0214] As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 2A-2H, the bench
assembly 108 is shown in various positions and configurations to
allow a user to perform various exercises. For example, FIGS. 2A,
2B, 2E and 2F show the bench seat 114 and back support 112
selectively locked into various positions along the length of the
seat rail 116. In addition, FIG. 2C shows the bench seat configured
to roll freely back and forth along the seat rail to perform leg
press exercises. As shown in FIG. 2C, the resistance cables 144 are
connected with the bench seat 114. More particularly, as shown in
FIGS. 2C and 7B, the resistance cables 144 can be connected with
eyelets 432 at opposing end portions of a resistance cable
connection member 434 connected with and extending between the
first and second seat brackets 378, 380.
[0215] As previously mentioned, the exercise device 100 may include
the leg developer assembly 148 shown in FIGS. 1C, 5, and others,
that can be used for various types of exercises, such as leg
extensions and leg curls. As shown in FIGS. 4A, 5, 5E, and 5EE, the
leg developer assembly includes an actuation member 436 and a
resistance arm assembly 438, both pivotally supported from the
second end portion 120 of the seat rail 116. The resistance arm
assembly 438 and the actuation member 436 are pivotally connected
with a leg developer axle 440 supported by right and left axle
brackets 442, 444 extending from the second end portion 120 of the
seat rail 116. As discussed in more detail below, the actuation
member 436 is selectively connected with the resistance arm
assembly 438 through a leg developer pop-pin 446. As such, the
pivotal position of the actuation member 436 relative to the
resistance arm assembly 438 can be selectively adjusted to place
the leg developer assembly 148 in a desired configuration for use.
With the leg developer assembly in the desired configuration, the
resistance cables 144 are connected with the resistance arm
assembly 438 and the user exercises by applying forces on the leg
developer assembly to reciprocatingly pivot the actuation member
436. Because the actuation member 436 is connected with the
resistance arm assembly 438 through the leg developer pop-pin 446,
the actuation member and the resistance arm assembly pivot
together.
[0216] As previously mentioned, the resistance cables 144 can be
connected with the leg developer assembly 148 through the
resistance arm assembly 438. The resistance arm assembly is also
pivotally connected with the leg developer axle 440 and is
selectively connected with the actuation member 436 through the leg
developer pop-pin 446. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the resistance
arm assembly 438 includes a pivot member 448 connected with a
resistance arm 450. The pivot member includes an arcuate edge 452
connected with a first substantially flat edge 454 and a second
substantially flat edge 456. The first edge 454 is angularly offset
from the second edge 456. A portion of the resistance arm 450
extends along the second edge 456 of the pivot member 448 and is
connected with the pivot member through side brackets 458. The
pivot member 448 includes an axle aperture 460 adapted to receive
the leg developer axle 440 to pivotally support the resistance arm
assembly 438. The pivot member 448 also includes a plurality of
circumferentially spaced apertures 462 extending into the arcuate
edge 452. As discussed in more detail below, the leg developer
pop-pin 446 is adapted to engage the apertures 462 to provide for
selective pivotal positioning of the actuation member relative to
the resistance arm assembly. A stop plate 464 connected with first
edge 454 of the pivot member 448 provides a limit to the pivotal
movement of the actuation member relative to the resistance arm
assembly in one direction. As shown in FIG. 8B, a slot 466 in a
rear side 468 of a lower end portion of the resistance arm provides
access to a shaft 470 extending between right and left sides 472,
474 of the resistance arm 450. As discussed in more detail below,
the shaft 470 provides a connection location for the resistance
cables 144. As shown in FIG. 8B, pads 476 are connected with upper
and lower end portions of the rear side 468 of the resistance arm
member. The pads are adapted to prevent direct contact between the
resistance arm and the bench frame.
[0217] As mentioned above, the actuation member 436 is pivotally
connected with the leg developer axle 440 and is selectively
connected with the resistance arm assembly 438 through the leg
developer pop-pin 446. As shown in FIGS. 5, 5E, and 5EE, and
others, the actuation member 436 is connected with the leg
developer axle 440 through first and second extension brackets 478,
480 extending from an end portion of the actuation member 436 and
along opposing sides of the pivot member 448. The leg developer
pop-pin 446 is partially housed within the actuation member 436.
The leg developer pop-pin includes a body 482 connected with and
supported by an end cap 484 on the actuation member 436. The body
482 houses a spring 486 operably connected with a pin 488. The
spring 486 acts to force a distal end portion 490 of the pin 488
against the arcuate edge 452 of the pivot member 448 and into the
apertures 462 located therein. A proximal end portion 492 of the
pin 488 is connected with a L-shaped bracket 494. A portion of the
L-shaped bracket extends through a slot 496 in a rear side of the
actuation member 436 and is connected with a slider handle 498. The
slider handle 498 is adapted to slide along the outer surface of
the of the actuation member 436. As such, the pin 488 can be
disengaged from the apertures 462 in the pivot member 448 by moving
the slider handle 498 in a direction away from the arcuate edge 452
of the pivot member 448.
[0218] As mentioned above, the pivotal position of the actuation
member 436 relative to the resistance arm assembly 438 can be
adjusted to configure the leg developer assembly 148 for various
different exercises. For example, when pivoting the actuation
member 436 from a first pivotal position to a second pivotal
position relative to the resistance arm assembly, a user can move
the slider handle 498 to disengage the pin 488 from the pivot
member 448 of the resistance arm assembly 438. While holding the
pin in disengagement from the pivot member, the actuation member
436 can be pivoted about the leg developer axle 440 to the second
pivotal position. Once the actuation member is in the second
position, the slider handle 498 can be released, which allows the
spring 486 to force the pin 488 back into engagement with the pivot
member 448. If the pin 488 is aligned with one of the apertures 462
in the arcuate edge 452 of the pivot member 448, the pin will
extend into one of the apertures, locking the actuation member 436
into the second position. If the pin 488 is not aligned with one of
the apertures 462, the pin will be forced against the arcuate edge
452 of the pivot member 448. The actuation member can then be
pivoted up and down until the pin is aligned with and forced into
one of the apertures.
[0219] As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4C, 4D, 5, and others, the leg
developer assembly 148 also includes a pair of upper roller pads
500 rotatably supported on right and left upper roller pad support
members 502, 504 extending outwardly from the right and left axle
brackets 442, 444, respectively. Similarly, a pair of lower roller
pads 506 are rotatably supported on right and left lower roller pad
support members 508, 510 extending outwardly from opposing sides of
the actuation member 436. The roller pads are adapted to support a
user's legs when performing leg extension and leg curl
exercises.
[0220] As previously mentioned, the leg developer assembly 148 can
be configured to perform various exercises. For example, as shown
in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the leg developer assembly is configured for
leg extension and leg curl exercises, respectively. In both
configurations, the resistance cables 144 extending from the arm
assemblies 124 are routed partially around the leg station pulleys
260, 262 and are connected with the shaft 470 in the lower end
portion of the resistance arm 450. As shown in FIG. 2A, a user can
perform leg extension exercises by placing the back side of his
knees on top of the upper roller pads 500 and the front side of his
ankles behind the lower roller pads 506. Once in position, the user
can extend his legs in upward in the direction shown in FIG. 2A. To
configure the leg develop assembly for leg extension exercises, the
user can move the slider handle 498 to disengage the leg develop
pop-pin 446 from the resistance arm assembly 438 and pivot the
actuation member 436 upward to the position shown in FIG. 2B. The
user can then lie on the bench 110 with the front side of his legs
positioned on top of upper roller pads 500 and the rear side of
ankles positioned under the lower roller pads 506. Once in
position, the user can then pivot his ankles upward in the
direction shown in FIG. 2B.
[0221] As previously mentioned, the exercise device 100 can be
configured for various types of exercises. In addition, various
types of exercise accessories can be removably attached to exercise
device. More particularly, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5F, the
exercise device includes a support member 512 connected with and
supported between the right and left axle brackets 442, 444
extending from the second end portion 120 of the seat rail 116. The
support member 512 is adapted to receive support posts 514
connected with various types of exercise accessories, such as a
preacher curl accessory as described in more detail below. A
pop-pin 516 connected with the support member 512 is adapted to
engage apertures in the support post 514 to allow for vertical
height adjustment of the exercise accessory.
[0222] As previously mentioned, the exercise device 100 includes
adjustable arm assemblies 124. More particularly, as shown in FIGS.
1A-1D and others, the exercise device includes right and left arm
assemblies 518, 520 adjustably connected with the frame. The
adjustable arm assemblies 518, 520 and the cable-pulley assembly
126 provide a user interface with the resistance system 128. In
use, actuation devices can be connected resistance cables extending
from the arm assemblies. As discussed in more detail below, the
vertical positions of the arm assemblies can be selectively
adjustable. In addition, the right and left arm assemblies can each
include a multi-axis locking mechanism 522 that allows a user to
pivot each arm assembly in vertical and horizontal directions
simultaneously. For clarity purposes, the right and left arm
assemblies are depicted in FIGS. 9-12C and others without showing a
multi-axis release mechanism. Embodiments of the multi-axis release
mechanism as discussed in detail below with reference to FIGS.
13A-13C.
[0223] Although the following description refers to figures
depicting mainly to the components of the right arm assembly 518,
it is to be appreciated that the left arm assembly 520 is
substantially a mirror image of the right arm assembly, and as
such, includes the same components as the right arm assembly, which
operate in relation with each other and with the other components
of the exercise device as the right arm assembly.
[0224] As shown in FIGS. 11-11B, the resistance cables 144 extend
from the cable-pulley assembly 126 on the frame 102 and through the
arm assemblies 124. As such, the arm assemblies each include an
arrangement of pulleys to guide the resistance cables. More
particularly, the right and left arm assemblies each include a
distal pulley housing 524 rotatably connected with an arm member
526. In turn, the arm member is rotatably connected with a proximal
pulley assembly 528. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the distal pulley
housing 524 can rotate relative the arm member 526 in directions A
and B. Rotation of the distal pulley housing helps to align the
resistance cables with the actuation device, as discussed in more
detail below. The distal pulley housing 524 rotatably supports
first and second distal pulleys 530, 532 that help guide the
resistance cables 144 through the arm assemblies 124.
[0225] As shown in FIG. 1D, 9, and 10-10A2, the right and left arm
assemblies 518, 520 are coupled with the right and left upright
members 192, 194, respectively, through arm slider assemblies 534
that provide selective vertical positioning of the arm assemblies.
More particularly, the proximal pulley assemblies 528 of each arm
assembly are connected with slider members 536. Each slider member
536 defines a hollow cross section that is adapted to receive the
upright members 192, 194 such that the slider members can slide up
and down along the length the upright members. As shown in FIGS.
10-10A2, each arm slider assembly 534 includes a slider pop-pin 538
mounted on the slider member 536. The slider pop-pin is adapted to
selectively engage a plurality of apertures 540 on front sides 542
of the upright members 192, 194. As such, the slider pop-pin 538
allows a user to selectively adjust the vertical position of the
arm assemblies 518, 520 along the length of the upright members
192, 194 by moving the slider members 536 along the length the of
the upright members and selectively engaging the slider pop-pin
with a selected one of the apertures 540 located at a desired
vertical position. For example, FIG. 10A1 shows the slider member
536 locked into position on the right upright member 192 with the
slider pop-pin 538 engaged with one of the apertures 540. FIG. 10A2
shows the slider pop-pin 538 disengaged from the apertures 540 so
the slider member 536 is free to move up and down along the right
upright member 192.
[0226] As previously mentioned and as discussed below with
reference to FIGS. 10-13C, the right and left arm assemblies 518,
520 can each include multi-axis locking mechanisms 522 that allow a
user to pivot each arm assembly in vertical and horizontal
directions simultaneously. More particularly, the multi-axis
locking mechanism 522 is operable to allow the arm assembly 124 to
simultaneously pivot about a first axis 544 defined by a pivotal
connection between the slider assembly 534 and the proximal pulley
assembly 528 (for horizontal pivoting), and a second axis 546
defined by a pivotal connection between the proximal pulley
assembly 528 and the arm member 526 (for vertical pivoting). As
such, a user can operate the multi-axis locking mechanism to allow
a distal end portion 548 of the arm assembly 124 to move right or
left and up or down at the same time. In one particular
implementation, the distal pulley housing 524 may be moved to
various positions in an arcuate path defined by approximately
90.degree. horizontal movement and approximately 180.degree.
vertical movement.
[0227] As previously mentioned, the proximal pulley assembly 528 is
pivotally connected with the slider member 536 through a first axle
550, which defines the first pivot axis 544. As shown in FIG. 11A,
the first axle 550 is substantially vertically oriented and
rotatably received within a cylindrically-shape first axle housing
552 connected with a horizontal selector plate 554 and a support
bracket 556. Both the horizontal selector plate 554 and the support
bracket 556 are connected with and extend outward from the slider
member 536. From the slider member 536, the support bracket 556
extends along a bottom side of the horizontal selector plate 554.
The first axle 550 is connected with and extends along an outer
edge of the support bracket 556 and through the horizontal selector
plate 554. As shown in FIGS. 10-11B, the proximal pulley assembly
528 includes a proximal pulley housing 558 having a first side 560
and a second side 562 rotatably supporting a proximal pulley 564
therebetween. A first ledge 566 on the proximal pulley housing 558
supports an axle plate 568 connected with a bottom end portion of
the first axle 550. A second ledge 570 on an upper portion of the
proximal pulley housing 558 supports a pop-pin support member 572.
The pop-pin support member 572 is substantially C-shaped and
includes a lower side 574 connected with the second ledge 570 and
an upper side 576 extending rearward over the top of the horizontal
selector plate 554. As shown in FIG. 11A, the upper side 576 of the
pop-pin support member 572 is connected with an upper end portion
of the first axle 550. As such, the proximal pulley assembly 528,
and in turn, the arm assembly 124 can pivot in both right and left
directions about the first axle 550.
[0228] As shown in FIGS. 9, 10, and 11-11B, each arm assembly 124
includes a first pop pin 578 to select the horizontal pivotal
position of the arm assembly. More particularly, the first pop-pin
578 is supported on the upper side 576 of the pop-pin support
member 572 and is adapted to engage a plurality of apertures 580 in
the horizontal selector plate 554. As shown in FIG. 11 and others,
the apertures 580 are circumferentially spaced and are located
adjacent an arcuate edge 582 of the horizontal selector plate 554.
As described in more detail below, the first pop-pin can be used to
selectively engage the apertures 580 in the horizontal selector
plate 554 to lock the arm assembly 124 in a desired pivotal
orientation relative to the horizontal selector plate. First and
second 584, 586 stops extending upward from the horizontal selector
plate 554 are adapted to engage the upper side 576 of the pop-pin
support member 572 to limit the range of pivotal movement of the
arm assembly about the first axis 544 in right and left
directions.
[0229] As previously mentioned, each arm assembly 124 is also
pivotally connected with the proximal pulley assembly 528. As shown
in FIGS. 10-11B, first and second arm support members 588, 590
extending rearwardly from the arm member 526 are pivotally
connected with pins 592 extending outward from the first and second
sides 560, 562 of the proximal pulley housing 558, defining the
second pivot axis 546. As such, the arm member, and in turn, the
arm assembly can pivot up and down about the second axis.
[0230] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 11A-11B, each arm assembly 124
includes a second pop pin 594 to select the vertical pivotal
position of each arm assembly. The second pop-pin 594 is supported
on the first arm support member 588 and is adapted to selectively
engage apertures 596 in the first side 560 of the proximal pulley
housing 558. As described in more detail below, the second pop-pin
can be used to selectively lock the arm assembly in a desired
pivotal orientation relative to the proximal pulley housing 558.
Upper and lower stops 598, 600 extending outward from the first
side 560 of the proximal pulley housing 558 are adapted to engage
the first arm support member 588 to limit the range of pivotal
movement of the arm assembly about the second axis in upward and
downward directions.
[0231] As previously mentioned, the arm assemblies 124 can include
multi-axis release mechanisms 522 that allows a user to disengage
the first and second pop-pins 578, 594 simultaneously from their
respective apertures 580, 596, which allows the arm assemblies to
simultaneously pivot about the first and second axes 544, 546, as
illustrated in FIGS. 12A-12C. It is to be appreciated that various
embodiments of the multi-axis release mechanism can be used to
disengage the first and second pop-pins. For example, FIGS. 13A-13C
illustrate three alternative embodiments of a multi-axis pivot
mechanism operable to disengage the first and second pop-pins from
their respective apertures. It is also to be appreciated that each
pop pin may be configured for individual activation. In such an
arrangement, the user would likely move the arm vertically and
horizontally in separate motions.
[0232] As shown in FIG. 13A, the multi-axis release mechanism 522
includes a lever member 602 pivotally connected with a lever axle
604 supported by a mounting block 606 on a top side 608 of the arm
member 526. A discussed in more detail below, the lever member is
connected with the first and second pop-pins 578, 594 through first
and second cables 610, 612. The lever member can be pivoted to pull
the cables, which in turn, disengages the pop-pins from respective
apertures to allow the arm assembly to simultaneously pivot about
the first and second axes. As shown in FIG. 13A, the lever member
602 is substantially L-shaped and includes a handle portion 614
connected with a puller portion 616 supporting a cable connection
plate 618. A first cable conduit 620, which houses the first cable
610, extends from the first pop-pin 578 to a cable guide block 622
connected with the top side of the arm member 526. In addition, a
second cable conduit 624, which houses the second cable 612,
extends from the second pop-pin to the cable guide block 622.
[0233] As shown in FIGS. 11A and 13A, the first pop-pin 578
includes a cylindrically-shaped body 626 housing a spring 628
operably connected with a pin 630. The spring 628 acts to force the
pin 630 against the horizontal selector plate 554. A first end 632
of the first cable is connected with the pin 630 and extends from
the first pop-pin body 626 and through the first cable conduit 620.
The first cable 610 exits the first cable conduit 620 and extends
through a first aperture 634 in the cable guide block 622 to a
second end 636 connected with the cable connection plate 618. As
discussed in more detail below, the pin 630 can be disengaged from
apertures 580 in the horizontal selector plate 554 by pivoting the
lever member 602, which in turn, pulls on the first cable 610 and
the pin 630 away from the horizontal selector plate, which allows
the arm assembly 124 to pivot about the first axis 544.
[0234] With reference to FIGS. 11A, 12A, 12B, and 13A, when moving
the arm assembly 124 from a first pivotal position to a second
pivotal position relative to the first axis 544, a user can pivot
the lever member 602 to disengage the pin 630 from the horizontal
selector plate 554. While holding the pin in disengagement from the
horizontal selector plate, the arm assembly 124 can be pivoted
about the first axis 544 to the second pivotal position. Once the
arm assembly is in the second pivotal position, the lever member
602 can be released, which allows the spring 628 to force the pin
630 back into engagement with the horizontal selector plate 554. If
the pin 630 is aligned with one of the apertures 580 in the
horizontal selector plate, the pin will extend into one of the
apertures, locking the arm assembly 124 into the second pivotal
position. If the pin 630 is not aligned with one of the apertures
580, the pin will be forced against the horizontal selector plate
554. The arm assembly 124 can then be pivoted right and left until
the pin is aligned with and forced into one of the apertures.
[0235] As shown in FIGS. 11B and 13A, the second pop-pin 594
includes a cylindrically-shaped body 638 housing a spring 640
operably connected with a pin 642. The spring 640 acts to force the
pin 642 against the first side 560 of the proximal pulley housing
558. A first end 644 of the second cable is connected with the pin
642 and extends from the second pop-pin body 638 and through the
second cable conduit 624. The second cable 612 exits the second
cable conduit 624 and extends through a second aperture 646 in the
cable guide block 622 to a second end 648 connected with the cable
connection plate 618. As discussed in more detail below, the pin
642 can be disengaged from apertures 596 in first side 560 of the
proximal pulley housing 558 by pivoting the lever member 602, which
in turn, pulls on the second cable 612 and the pin 642 away from
the proximal pulley housing, which allows the arm assembly 124 to
pivot about the second axis 546.
[0236] With reference to FIGS. 11B, 12B, 12C, and 13A, when moving
the arm assembly 124 from a first pivotal position to a second
pivotal position relative to the second axis 546, a user can pivot
the lever member 602 to disengage the pin 642 from the proximal
pulley housing 558. While holding the pin in disengagement from the
proximal pulley housing, the arm assembly 124 can be pivoted about
the second axis 546 to the second pivotal position. Once the arm
assembly is in the second pivotal position, the lever member 602
can be released, which allows the spring 640 to force the pin 642
back into engagement with the proximal pulley housing 558. If the
pin 642 is aligned with one of the apertures 596 in the proximal
pulley housing, the pin will extend into one of the apertures,
locking the arm assembly 124 into the second pivotal position. If
the pin 642 is not aligned with one of the apertures 596, the pin
will be forced against the proximal pulley housing 558. The arm
assembly 124 can then be pivoted up and down until the pin is
aligned with and forced into one of the apertures.
[0237] Referring to FIGS. 11A, 11B, 12A-12C, and 13A, to operate
the first embodiment of the multi-axis release mechanism 522, a
user applies a force to the lever member 602 to move the handle
portion 614 toward the top side 608 of the arm member 526, causing
the lever member to pivot about the lever axle 604. In turn, the
cable connection plate 618 on the puller portion 616 of the lever
member 602 moves away from the cable guide block 622. As such, the
cable connection plate 618 pulls on the first ends 632, 644 of the
first and second cables 610, 612, causing the first and second
pop-pins to disengage from the horizontal selector plate 554 and
the proximal pulley housing 558, respectively. While the first and
second pop-pins are disengaged, the user can pivot the arm assembly
124 about the first and second axes 544, 546 at the same time. Once
the arm assembly is in the desired position, the handle portion 614
of the lever member 602 can be released. The springs 628, 640 in
the first and second pop-pins 578, 596 then force the pins 630, 642
to engage apertures 580, 596 in the horizontal selector plate and
the proximal pulley housing, respectively, which locks the arm
assembly in the desired position. As the springs move the pins back
toward the horizontal selector plate and proximal pulley housing,
the first and second cables pull the cable connection plate 618
back toward the cable guide block 622, which in turn, causes the
lever member 602 to pivot about the lever axle, moving the handle
portion upward 614 from the top side 608 of the arm member 526.
[0238] A second embodiment of the multi-axis release mechanism 522'
is shown in FIG. 13B. The second embodiment 522' includes a handle
650 connected with an arm slider member 652, as opposed to the
lever member 602 described above with reference to the first
embodiment 522, to operate the first and second pop-pins 578, 594.
More particularly, the arm slider member 652 defines a hollow cross
section that is adapted to receive the arm member 526 such that the
slider member can slide back and forth along the length of the arm
member. The handle 650 defines a substantially square-shaped loop
that surrounds the outer periphery of the arm slider member 652 and
is connected with two opposing sides of the slider member. The
second ends 636, 648 of the first and second cables 610, 612 are
connected with a cable connection plate 654 mounted on a top side
656 of the arm slider member 652.
[0239] To operate the second embodiment of the multi-axis release
mechanism 522', a user applies a force to the handle 650 to move
the arm slider member 652 along the arm member 526 away from the
cable guide block 622. In turn, the cable connection plate 654 on
the arm slide member 652 moves away from the cable guide block 622.
As such, the cable connection plate 654 pulls on the first ends
632, 644 of the first and second cables 610, 612, causing the first
and second pop-pins to disengage from the horizontal selector plate
554 and the proximal pulley housing 558, respectively. While the
first and second pop-pins are disengaged, the user can pivot the
arm assembly 124 about the first and second axes 544, 546 at the
same time. Once the arm assembly is in the desired position, the
handle 650 can be released. The springs 628, 640 in the first and
second pop-pins 578, 594 then force the pins 630, 642 to engage
apertures 580, 596 in the horizontal selector plate and the
proximal pulley housing, respectively, which locks the arm assembly
in the desired position. As the springs move the pins back toward
the horizontal selector plate and proximal pulley housing, the
first and second cables pull the cable connection plate 654 back
toward the cable guide member 622, which in turn, pulls the arm
slider member 652 toward the cable guide member 622. The cable
guide member can also act as a stop to limit the travel of the arm
slider member toward the proximal end of the arm assembly.
[0240] FIG. 13C illustrates a third embodiment of a multi-axis
release mechanism 522'' that is substantially similar to the second
embodiment 522'. However, the third embodiment 522'' includes a
handle post 658 connected with the top side of this arm slider
member 652, as opposed to the handle 650 described above with
reference to the second embodiment 522'. As such, a user applies a
force to the handle post 658 to move the arm slider member 652 and
operate the first and second pop-pins 578, 594.
[0241] With reference to FIGS. 2A-2H, the following provides a
brief description of some of the various exercises that can be
performed on the exercise device 100 as well as operation of
various component on the exercise device in light of the previously
described structural details.
[0242] As shown in FIG. 2A, the exercise device 100 is configured
for leg extension exercises. The back support 112 on the bench
frame 104 is locked in an upright position relative to the bench
seat 114 with the back support pop-pin 410. The arm assemblies 518,
520 are locked in relatively low vertical positions on the right
and left upright members 192, 194 with the slider pop-pins 538
mounted on the slider members 536. Using the multi-axis release
mechanism 522, the arm assemblies are oriented with the arm members
526 angled downward and inward toward each other. The resistance
cables 144 extend from the distal pulley housings 524 of each arm
assembly 518, 520, around the leg station pulleys 260, 262, and are
connected with the shaft 470 on the resistance arm 450. A user
places his body on the exercise device as illustrated in FIG. 2A
and proceeds to move his legs in the directions shown.
[0243] As shown in FIG. 2B, the exercise device 100 is configured
for leg curl exercises. The back support 112 on the bench frame 104
is locked in a downward position with the back support pop-pin 410
parallel with the bench seat 114. The arm assembly positions and
resistance cable configurations are the same as described above
with reference to FIG. 2A. The actuation member 436 is locked into
position with the leg developer pop-pin to extend forward from the
forward bench support 122. A user places his body on the exercise
device as illustrated in FIG. 2B and proceeds to move his legs in
the directions shown.
[0244] As shown in FIG. 2C, the exercise device 100 is configured
for leg press exercises. The bench seat 114 and back support 112
are locked into position with the swivel pop-pin 392 wherein the
user is facing in a rearward direction toward the main frame 106.
The bench seat pop-pin 348 is configured to allow the bench seat to
freely roll back and forth along the length of the seat rail 116.
The resistance cables 144 extending from the arm assemblies 518,
520 are connected with the eyelets 432 on the bench seat 114. A
user places his body on the exercise device as illustrated in FIG.
2C and proceeds to press his feet against the foot plates 212, 218
to move the bench seat in the directions shown.
[0245] As shown in FIG. 2D, the exercise device 100 is configured
for pull down exercises. The back support 112 on the bench frame
104 is locked in a downward position parallel with the bench seat
114 with the back support pop-pin 410. The arm assemblies 518, 520
are locked in relatively high vertical positions on the right and
left upright members 192, 194 with the slider pop-pins 538 mounted
on the slider members 536. Using the multi-axis release mechanism
522, the arm assemblies are oriented with the arm members 526
angled downward and inward toward each other. A user places his
body on the exercise device as illustrated in FIG. 2D, grasps the
handles 146 connected with the resistance cables 144 extending from
the arm assemblies, and proceeds to pull with his arms in the
directions shown.
[0246] As shown in FIGS. 2E and 2F, the exercise device 100 is
configured for bench press exercises. In FIG. 2E, the back support
112 on the bench frame 104 is locked in an upright position with
the back support pop-pin 410. The bench seat 114 and back support
112 are locked in an orientation with the swivel pop-pin 392
wherein the user is facing in a forward direction away from the
main frame 106. The arm assemblies 518, 520 are locked in
intermediate vertical positions on the right and left upright
members 192, 194 with the slider pop-pins 538 mounted on the slider
members 536. Using the multi-axis release mechanism 522, the arm
assemblies are oriented with the arm members 526 angled upward and
outward away from each other. A user places his body on the
exercise device as illustrated in FIG. 2E, grasps the handles 146
connected with the resistance cables 144 extending from the arm
assemblies, and proceeds to push with his arms in the directions
shown. In FIG. 2F, the exercise device 100 is configured for an
inclined bench press exercise. As such, the back support 112 is
locked in an inclined position with the back support pop-pin 410.
The arm assemblies 518, 520 are locked in a relatively low vertical
position on the right and left uprights 192, 194 with the slider
pop-pins 538.
[0247] As shown in FIG. 2G, the exercise device 100 is configured
for preacher curl exercises with a preacher curl accessory 660
connected with the bench frame 104. More particularly, the preacher
curl accessory includes an inclined preacher curl pad 662 connected
with a support post 664. The support post 664 is inserted into the
support member 512 supported between the right and left axle
brackets 442, 444 extending from the second end portion 120 of the
seat rail 116 as described above with reference to FIGS. 5 and 5F.
The pop-pin 516 on the support member 512 is adapted to engage
apertures in the support post 664 to allow for selective height
adjustment of the preacher curl pad 662. The arm assemblies 518,
520 and resistance cables 144 are oriented in the same manner as
described with reference to FIG. 2A, except handles 146 are
connected with the resistance cables. A user places his body on the
exercise device as illustrated in FIG. 2G, grasps the handles and
proceeds to pull with his arms in the directions shown.
[0248] As shown in FIG. 2H, the exercise device 100 is placed in
the storage configuration with the seat rail 116 held in an upright
pivotal position by the first seat rail pop-pin 234. As shown in
FIG. 2H, when the exercise device is placed in the storage
configuration, the user can stand on the platform plate 154 and
perform various types of exercises, such as pull downs, curls, and
shoulder exercises.
[0249] As previously mentioned, the user actuates the resistance
system 128 through the cable-pulley system 126. As shown in FIGS.
1B, 1D, and 14, the cable-pulley system 126 can include separate
right and left cable-pulley systems 666, 668 that couple the right
and left resistance systems 130, 132 with resistance cables 144
extending from distal end portions of the right and left arm
assemblies 518, 520, respectively. Although the following
description refers to figures depicting mainly to the components of
the right cable-pulley system 666, it is to be appreciated that the
left cable-pulley system 668 is substantially a mirror image of the
right cable-pulley system, and as such, includes the same
components as the cable-pulley system, which operate in relation
with each other and with the frame as the right cable-pulley
system.
[0250] FIGS. 1B, 1D, 11, 11A and 14 illustrate the cable routing
from the arm assemblies 518, 520 to the resistance systems 130,
132. From a first end 670, a first resistance cable 672 extends
through a cable stop 674 engaged with the first and second distal
pulleys 530, 532 of the arm assembly 124 and through the inside of
the arm member 526 to the proximal pulley 564. The cable stop is
connected with the first resistance cable and prevents the cable
from being withdrawn into the arm assembly. The first resistance
cable 672 wraps around a portion of the proximal pulley 564 and
extends downward to and wraps around a portion of a lower
directional pulley 676. The lower directional pulleys are rotatably
supported by the lower end portions of the right and left upright
members 192, 194. The first resistance cable 672 extends upward
from the lower directional pulley 676 to a first upper directional
pulley 678. The first upper directional pulleys are rotatably
supported between the front and rear pulley plates 200, 202
connected with upper end portions of the right and left upright
members. The first resistance cable wraps partially around the
first upper directional pulley 678 and extends downward to a
floating pulley 680. The first resistance cable wraps partially
around the floating pulley and extends upward to wrap partially
around a second upper directional pulley 682. From the second upper
directional pulley 682, the first resistance cable 672 extends
outward to a third upper directional pulley 684. The second and
third upper directional pulleys are also rotatably supported
between the front and rear pulley plates connected with upper end
portions of the right and left upright members. The first
resistance cable 672 wraps partially around the third upper
directional pulley 684 and extends downward, through the first axle
housing 552 connected with the arm slider assembly 534. The first
resistance cable extends from the first axle housing 552 to a
second end 686 connected with a cable termination 688. As shown in
FIG. 11A, the cable termination 688 abuts the bottom end portion of
the first axle housing 552 on the arm assembly. Because both ends
of the first resistance cables 672 are terminated on the arm
assemblies 518, 520, the arm assemblies can move relative to the
main frame 106 without affecting the tension to the first
resistance cables. As such, the position of the arm assemblies 518,
520 can be changed without actuating the resistance systems 130,
132.
[0251] When using the exercise device 100, the user applies a force
to either or both first resistance cables 672 extending from the
arm assemblies 518, 520, which pulls the first end 670 of the
resistance cable 672 from the distal pulley housing 524. Because
the second end 686 of the first resistance cable 672 is terminated
at the first axle housing 552, pulling the first end 670 of the
first resistance cable from the distal pulley housing 524 causes
the floating pulley 680 to move upward. Movement of the floating
pulley 680 in the upward direction translates forces to the
resistance system 128 through a second resistance cable 690
extending downward from the floating pulley. As previously
mentioned, the resistance systems 130, 132 include transmissions
134 and resistance assemblies 136 having pluralities of selectable
resistance packs 138. The second resistance cable 690 connects the
floating pulley 680 with the transmission assembly 134, which in
turn, is connected with the resistance assembly 136 through a third
resistance cable 692. As such, movement of the floating pulley 680
in an upward direction causes the transmission assembly 134 to
apply torsional forces to the resistance assembly 136. As described
in more detail below, the plurality of resistance packs 138 of the
resistance assembly utilize torsional springs to provide a
selectable level of resistance. As such, the resistance assembly
provides resistance to the torsional forces exerted thereon by the
transmission assembly.
[0252] Although the following description refers mainly to the
components of the transmission assembly and resistance assembly
associated with the right resistance system 130, it is to be
appreciated that the transmission and resistance assemblies
associated with the left resistance system 132 are substantially
mirror images of the transmission and resistance assemblies of the
right resistance system, and as such, include the same components
and operate in relation with each other and with the other
components of the exercise device as the transmission and
resistance assemblies of the right resistance system.
[0253] As shown in FIGS. 15-15D, the transmission assembly 134
includes a transmission pulley 694 rotatably supported by a
transmission axle 696 extending from the transmission support
member 188 on the frame 106. During exercise, as the user applies a
force to the first resistance cable 672, the floating pulley 680
moves upward, and in turn, the second resistance cable 690 is
pulled upward and unwinds from the transmission pulley 694, causing
the transmission pulley to rotate around the transmission axle in a
first direction. Conversely, as the user lessens the force exerted
on the first resistance cable, the resistance assembly 136 pulls
against the transmission pulley 694 through the third resistance
cable 692, causing the transmission pulley to rotate around the
transmission axle in a second direction opposite the first
direction. As the transmission pulley 694 rotates in the second
direction, the second resistance cable 690 pulls the floating
pulley 680 downward and winds back onto the transmission pulley. In
one example, pulling the first resistance cable 672 from the right
arm assembly 518 pulls the floating pulley 680 of the right
cable-pulley system 666 upward. As such, the floating pulley pulls
against the second resistance cable 690, causing the second
resistance cable to unwind from the transmission pulley 694 of the
right resistance system 130, which in turn, causes the transmission
pulley to rotate in a clockwise direction (as viewed from the right
side of the exercise device). As discussed in more detail below,
rotation of the transmission pulley in the clockwise direction
pulls the third resistance cable 692 and exerts torsional forces on
the resistance assembly. Conversely, releasing the tension on the
first resistance cable 672 allows the right resistance system pull
against the third resistance cable 692, causing the transmission
pulley 694 to rotate counterclockwise (as viewed from the right
side of the exercise device). Rotation of the transmission pulley
in the counterclockwise direction pulls downward on the second
resistance cable and winds the second resistance cable back onto
the transmission pulley while at the same time pulling the floating
pulley downward.
[0254] As shown in FIG. 15-15B, a first end 698 of the third
resistance cable 692 is connected with a cable termination member
700 extending outward from a side of the transmission pulley 694.
As such, the as the transmission pulley rotates, the cable
termination member 700 also rotates around the transmission axle
696 along with the first end 698 of the third resistance cable 692.
A second end 702 of the third resistance cable 692 is connected
with a linearizing cam 704 on the resistance assembly 136. As
discussed in more detail below, when the transmission pulley 694
rotates in a direction that pulls upward on the third resistance
cable 692, the linearizing cam 704 imparts a torsional force to
selected resistance packs 138.
[0255] As shown in FIGS. 15-15E, the transmission assembly 134
includes cams 706 connected with and adapted to rotate with the
transmission pulley 694 around the transmission axle 696. The three
cams 706 are individually referred to herein as a first cam 708, a
second cam 710, and a third cam 712. A cam selector mechanism 714
is connected with an end portion of the transmission axle 696 and
provides the ability to selectively position the cams 706 along the
length of the transmission axle. More particularly, the cam
selector mechanism 714 allows a user to selectively position any
one of the three cams 706 in alignment with the third resistance
cable 692 extending from the cable termination member 700. When one
of three cams is aligned to engage the third resistance cable, the
cam is referred to as a "selected" cam 716. As such, when the
floating pulley 680 is pulled upward to cause the transmission
pulley 694 to rotate, the selected cam 716 will rotate with the
transmission pulley and engage the third resistance cable. As the
selected cam 716 rotates, a portion of the third resistance cable
wraps onto an outer cam surface of the cam. As discussed in more
detail below, the shape of the selected cam affects the shape of
the force curve.
[0256] As previously mentioned, the three cams 706 are slidingly
mounted on the transmission axle 696 and as such, would not rotate
with the transmission pulley 694 unless otherwise restrained. As
shown in FIGS. 15 and 15E, a cam retention rod 718 located radially
outward from the transmission axle 696 extends axially outward from
the transmission pulley 694 parallel to the transmission axle. The
cam retention rod 718 extends through the cams 706 and forces the
cams to rotate with the transmission pulley. The cams 706 are
connected with each other and are adapted to slide back and forth
along the length of the transmission axle 696 and the cam retention
rod 718. A cam hub 720 including a first flange 722 and a second
flange 724 separated by a cylindrical center portion 726 adapted to
receive the transmission axle is connected with the first cam 708.
The diameter of the first flange 722 and the second flange 724 of
the cam hub are larger than the diameter of the center cylindrical
portion 726, defining a channel 728 between the first and second
flanges. As discussed below, the cam selector mechanism 714 is
connected with the channel 728 on the cam hub to provide for
selective axial position of the cams 706 along the transmission
axle.
[0257] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 15B, the cam selector mechanism 714
includes a mounting plate 730 connected with an outer end portion
of the transmission axle 696. The mounting plate 730 supports a
selector block 732 having three apertures 734 located therein. The
three apertures 734 are individually referred to herein as a first
aperture 736, a second aperture 738, and a third aperture 740. A
C-shaped slider bracket 742 adapted to slide back and forth along
the length of the selector block 732 includes a top side 744
adjacent to a top side 746 of the selector block 732 and a bottom
side 748 adjacent to a bottom side 750 of the selector block 732. A
cam pop-pin 752 mounted on the top side 744 of the slider bracket
742 is adapted to engage the three apertures 734 on the selector
block 732. A tongue 754 extending upward from the top side 744 of
the slider bracket 742 is connected with a first end portion 756 of
a tie rod 758. From the first end portion 756, the tie rod 758
extends through a tie rod cylinder 760 connected with the mounting
plate 730 to a second end portion 762 connected with an engagement
member 764, connected with the channel 728 in the cam hub 720. As
such, the tie rod 758 and engagement member 764 connect the slider
bracket 742 with the three cams 706 through the cam hub 720.
Therefore, when the slider bracket 742 moves back and forth along
the selector block 732, the tie rod 758 pushes or pulls the cam hub
720 and cams 706 back and forth along the length of the
transmission axle 696 and the cam retention rod 718.
[0258] The slider bracket 742 the selector mechanism 714 can be
used to position any one of the three cams 706 in alignment with
the third resistance cable 692. Once the selected cam is aligned
with the third resistance cable, the slider bracket 742 and cams
706 can be locked in position by engaging the cam pop-pin 752 with
a corresponding aperture 734 on the selector block 732. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A, when the cam pop-pin 752 is engaged
with the first aperture 736 in the selector block 732, the first
cam 708 is the selected cam 716. In addition, when the cam pop-pin
is engaged with the second aperture 738 in the selector block, the
second cam 710 is the selected cam as shown in FIG. 16B. Further,
when the cam pop-pin is engaged with the third aperture 740 in the
selector block, the third cam 712 is the selected cam as shown in
FIG. 16C.
[0259] As previously mentioned, the shape of the outer
circumferential surfaces of the cams can affect the shape of the
force curve. The contour or shape of the outer surface of each cam
is defined by radii of varying length extending from the center of
the cam (i.e. the transmission axle) to an outer circumference of
the cam. It is to be appreciated that embodiments of the present
invention can utilize various types of cams having differently
shaped outer cam surfaces and are not limited to that which are
disclosed herein. As shown in FIG. 16D, a first radial distance 766
from a center longitudinal axis 768 of the transmission axle 796 to
an outer circumference 770 of the transmission pulley 694 is
greater than a second radial distance 772 from the center
longitudinal axis of the transmission axle to an outer
circumference 774 of the selected cam 716, which could be any one
of the three cams shown. The difference between the first and
second radial distances provides a mechanical advantage between a
first force exerted on the second resistance cable 690 (acting to
rotate the transmission pulley) and a second force exerted on the
third resistance cable 692 as the third resistance cable wraps onto
the outer circumferential surface of the selected cam.
[0260] It is to be appreciated that the mechanical advantage
between forces exerted on the second and third resistance cables
690, 692 can increase as the third resistance cable 692 wraps onto
the outer circumferential surface 774 of selected cam 716 at
locations defined by a progressively decreasing radial distance
from the center longitudinal axis of the transmission axle. In
other words, a first force applied to the second cable acting to
rotate the transmission pulley 694 will result in a second force
exerted on the third resistance cable 692 that progressively
increases as the third resistance cable wraps onto the outer cam
circumferences 774 at locations defined by a progressively
decreasing radial distance from the center longitudinal axis 768 of
the transmission axle 696. Conversely, the mechanical advantage
between forces exerted on the second and third resistance cables
can decrease as the third resistance cable wraps onto the outer
circumferential surface of selected cam at locations defined by a
progressively increasing radial distance from the center
longitudinal axis of the transmission axle. In other words, a first
force applied to the second cable acting to rotate the transmission
pulley will result in a second force exerted on the third
resistance cable that progressively decreases as the third
resistance cable wraps onto the outer cam surface at locations
defined by a progressively increasing radial distance from the
center longitudinal axis of the transmission axle. Further, the
mechanical advantage between forces on the second and third
resistance cables will not change as third resistance cable wraps
onto the outer circumferential surface of selected cam at locations
defined by a constant radial distance from the center longitudinal
axis of the transmission axle.
[0261] FIGS. 17A-17C illustrate the contours or shapes of the outer
circumferential surfaces of the first cam 708, second cam 710, and
third cam 712 for one embodiment of the present invention. As
illustrated, each cam includes an arcuate outer surface 776
including a first engagement region 778, a second engagement region
780, and a third engagement region 782 defined by varying radial
distances from the center longitudinal axis 768 of the transmission
axle 696. The three engagement regions of the outer cam surfaces
are also defined below in the context of describing the rotation of
the transmission pulley 694 of the right resistance system 130. The
transmission pulley 694 is shown in FIGS. 18A-18F as rotating in a
clockwise direction (as viewed from the right side of the exercise
device) in response to an upward movement of the floating pulley
680. As the transmission pulley begins to rotate in the clockwise
direction, the third resistance cable first 692 wraps onto the
first engagement region of the selected cam surface. As the
transmission pulley continues its rotation in the clockwise
direction, the third resistance cable wraps onto the second
engagement region of the selected cam surface. Further, as the
transmission pulley nears full rotation in the clockwise direction,
the third resistance cable wraps onto the third engagement region
of the selected cam surface. It is to be appreciated that the
references to the three engagement regions are for descriptive
purposes and should be construed to limit the sizes and shapes of
the cams used with the present invention.
[0262] As shown in FIGS. 17A and 18A-18B, a radial distance R from
the center longitudinal axis 768 of the transmission axle 696 to
the outer arcuate surface 776 of the first cam 708 increases from
the first engagement region 778 to the second engagement region
780. The radial distance R also increases from the second
engagement region 780 to the third engagement region 782. As shown
in FIGS. 18A-18B, as the third resistance cable 692 wraps onto the
first cam 708 as the first cam rotates clockwise with the
transmission pulley 694, the mechanical advantage between forces on
the second and third resistance cables 690, 692 will decrease,
resulting in a progressive force curve. In other words, a user of
the exercise device will encounter progressively greater resistance
as the user pulls the first end of the first resistance cable 672
from the distal pulley housing 524 on the arm assembly 124. As
shown in FIGS. 17B and 18C-18D, the radial distance R' the center
longitudinal axis 768 of the transmission axle 696 to the outer
arcuate surface 776 of the second cam 710 remains constant from the
first engagement region 778 to the second engagement region 780,
and from the second engagement region to the third engagement
region 782. As shown in FIGS. 18C-18D, as the third resistance
cable 692 wraps onto the second cam 710 as the second cam rotates
clockwise with the transmission pulley 694, the mechanical
advantage between the forces on the second and third resistance
cables will remain constant, resulting in a linear force curve. In
other words, a user of the exercise device will encounter a
substantially constant resistance as the user pulls the first end
of the first resistance cable 672 from the distal pulley housing
524 on the arm assembly 124. As shown in FIGS. 17C and 18E-18F, the
radial distance R'' the center longitudinal axis 768 of the
transmission axle 696 to the outer arcuate surface 776 of the third
cam 712 decreases from the first engagement region 778 to the
second engagement region 780, and from the second engagement region
780 to the third engagement region 782. As shown in FIGS. 18E-18F,
as the third resistance cable 692 wraps onto the second cam 710 as
the second cam rotates clockwise with the transmission pulley 694,
the mechanical advantage between forces on the second and third
resistance cables will increase, resulting in a regressive force
curve. In other words, a user of the exercise device will encounter
progressively less resistance as the user pulls the first end of
the first resistance cable 672 from the distal pulley housing 524
on the arm assembly 124.
[0263] As previously mentioned, the transmission assembly 134 is
connected with the resistance assembly 136 through the third
resistance cable 692. As shown in FIGS. 15, 15B and 19A-19C, the
third resistance cable extends from the first end 698 connected
with the cable termination member 760 on the transmission pulley
694 to the second end 702 connected with a cable termination 784 on
the linearizing cam 704 on the resistance assembly 136. The
linearizing cam is rotatably mounted on a resistance axle 786
connected with the main frame 106. The resistance assembly also
includes a selector mechanism 788 connected with the linearizing
cam 704. The selector mechanism allows a user to selectively
connect a desired number of resistance packs 138 with the
linearizing cam. As described in more detail below with reference
to FIGS. 20A-20E and others, the resistance packs 138 include
resilient resistance elements 790 that act as torisional springs
enclosed within a housing 792. The resistance elements 790 are
connected with center hubs 794, which in turn, are connected with
the resistance axle 786. More particularly, the center hubs 794 are
connected with resistance axle through an arrangement of splines,
and as such, do not rotate about the resistance axle. As discussed
in more detail below, the housings 792 of the resisance packs 138
can be selectively connected with the selector mechanism 788.
Therefore, as the linearizing cam 704 and the selector mechanism
788 rotate together, housings of resistance packs connected with
the selector mechanism also rotate. As the housings rotate, the
center hubs remain stationary, which causes the torsional springs
be stretched within the housings. As the torsional springs stretch,
the torisional springs exert progressively increasing resistive
torsional forces on the linearizing cam, which are translated to
the third resistance cable.
[0264] As previously mentioned, each resistance axle 786 of the
right and left resistance systems supports the linearizing cam 704
as well as the plurality of resistance packs 138. The resistance
axles 786 of the right and left resistance systems 130, 132 are
connected with and extend outward from the right and left rear
upright members 178, 180 of the frame 106 described above with
reference to FIG. 3A. As shown in FIGS. 19A-19C, the linearizing
cam 704 is rotateably mounted on the resistance axle 786 and is
connected with the second end 702 of the third resistance cable
692. The connection of the third resistance cable 692 with the
linearizing cam 704 provides for selective tensioning of the third
resistance cable. As shown in FIGS. 15B and 19C, the linearizing
cam 704 includes a first arcuate slot 796 and a second arcuate slot
798. The third resistance cable 692 extending downward from the
transmission assembly 134 wraps around the outer surface of the
linearizing cam 704 to where the second end 702 of the third
resistance cable 692 connects with the cable termination 784 inside
the first arcuate slot 796. The cable termination 784 is connected
with a plate 800 extending between a first bolt 802 and a second
bolt 804. As shown in FIG. 20C, the second bolt 804 extends through
the second slot 798 in the linearizing cam. The combination of the
first and second bolts and the plate allow the tension of the third
resistance cable to be adjusted. For example, when adjusting the
tension in the third resistance cable 692, the first and second
bolts 802, 804 are loosened so as to allow the second bolt 804,
cable termination 784, and plate 800 to pivot around the first bolt
802. The plate 800 can then be pivoted to provide the desired
tension on the third resistance cable 692 through the cable
termination 784 connected with the plate. Once the desired tension
in the third resistance cable is achieved, the first and second
bolts are retightened.
[0265] As previously mentioned, the selector mechanism 788 is used
to selectively connect a desired number of resistance packs 138
with the linearizing cam 704. Therefore, when tension is placed on
the third resistance cable 692 that causes the linearizing cam to
rotate around the resistance axle 786, the selector plate also
rotates along with the housings 792 of resistance packs 138
connected with the selector mechanism. Due to the resilient
construction of the resistance elements 790 inside the housings of
the resistance packs 138, the resistance forces exerted by the
resistance packs progressively increase as the linearizing cam
rotates. As such, an outer circumferential surface 806 of the
linearizing cam 704 can be shaped to offset the progressive
increase in forces exerted by the resistance packs. More
particularly, as the third resistance cable 692 unwinds from
linearizing cam 704, a radial distance R1, shown in FIG. 15B, from
a center longitudinal axis 808 of the resistance axle 786 to a
location where the third resistance cable separates from the outer
surface of the linearizing cam increases. In other words, a first
force exerted on the third resistance cable 692 that causes the
linearizing cam 704 to rotate will result in a progressively
increasing torque exerted on the linearizing cam 704 as the
linearizing cam rotates around the resistance axle 786. As such,
although the resistance packs 138 provide a progressively
increasing resistance torque as the housings 792 are rotated
relative the resistance axle 786, the progressively increasing
torque exerted by the third resistance cable on the linearizing cam
results in a substantially linear resistance force exerted on the
third resistance cable 692. It is to be appreciated that
linearizing cams having different outer shapes can be used with the
present invention and as such, should not be limited to the shape
of the linearizing cam described and depicted herein.
[0266] It is to be appreciated that the exercise devices described
herein can include resistance systems that utilize various types of
devices to provide resistance. For example, FIGS. 20A-20E show one
embodiment of the resistance pack 138 that can be used with the
exercise device 100. The resistance pack 138 is similar the
resistance packs disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,511, titled
"Adjustable Resilient Reel Exerciser," filed on Jan. 23, 1989; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,209,461, titled "Elastomeric Torsional Spring Having
Tangential Spokes with Varying Elastic Response," filed on Jun. 12,
1992; U.S. Pat. No. 6,126,580, titled "Resistance Exercise Machine
with Series Connected Resistance Packs," filed on Aug. 7, 1998; and
U.S. Pat. No. 6,440,044, titled "Resistance Mechanism with Series
Connected Resistance Packs," filed on Aug. 1, 2000, all of which
are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
[0267] As previously mentioned, the housing 792 of the resistance
pack 138 encloses resistance elements 790 that act as torsional
springs. In turn, the torsional springs are connected with center
hubs 794, which are connected with the resistance axle 786 through
an arrangement of splines. As shown in FIGS. 20A-20E, the housing
792 includes a flat, disc-shaped base panel 810 with a first side
812 and a second side 814. A plurality of rigid triangular frames
816 extend outward from each of the sides of the base panel, each
frame 816 having a tab 818 projecting from an outer edge thereof.
Although the resistance pack shown in FIGS. 20A-20E has eight
triangular frames, it is to be appreciated that the resistance pack
can have more or less than eight triangular frames. A circular rim
820 is connected with and extends along the circular periphery of
the base panel 810. As shown in FIGS. 20A-20D, the housing 792 also
includes a first side wall 822 and a second side wall 824 connected
with the rim 820 and the base panel 810 on opposite sides of the
resistance pack. The side walls are substantially circularly-shaped
with a portion of the periphery of each side wall extending beyond
the rim 820 to form a ledge 826. A connection block 828 having an
aperture 830 therein extends between the side walls 822, 824 near
the ledge 826. As discussed in more detail below, the selector
mechanism is adapted to engage the aperture 830 to selectively
connect the housing 792 with the linearizing cam 704.
[0268] As shown in FIGS. 20B and 20D, the resistance pack 138
includes two resistance elements 790. It is to be appreciated that
the resistance pack can include more or less than two resistance
elements. As previously mentioned, the resistance elements act as
torsional springs and may be constructed of a suitable elastomeric
substance exhibiting resiliency and resistance to stretching. As
shown in FIG. 20E, the resistance elements 790 each include a
plurality of spokes 832 connected with and extending radially
outward from the center hub 794. A plurality of peripheral portions
834 of the resistance elements 790 extend between outer ends of the
spokes 832. The center hub 794 may be constructed of a rigid
material which may be glued or otherwise bonded to the elastomeric
inner ends of the spokes. As discussed in more detail below, the
center hub 794 also includes splines 836 adapted to engage
corresponding splines 838 the resistance axle 786. The resistance
elements are installed with the spokes extending between the
adjacent triangular frames 816 and with the peripheral portions 834
beneath the tabs 818 extending from the triangular frames. As such,
one resistance element is adjacent the first side 812 of the base
panel 810, and the other resistance element is adjacent the second
side 814. When the housing of the resistance pack containing the
resistance elements is rotated relative to the center hubs of each
resistance element, the spokes and the peripheral portions of the
resistance elements are stretched. The resilient construction of
the resistance elements resist stretching of the spokes and
peripheral portions to provide a resistive force that opposes the
stretching of the arms and peripheral portions. It is to
appreciated that the resistive forces increases the more the
resistance elements are stretched. In other words, the more the
housing of the resistance pack is rotated relative to the hub, the
greater the resistance force.
[0269] As previously mentioned, the resistance axle 786 supports
the linearizing cam 704 and the plurality of resistance packs 138.
As shown in FIGS. 21A-21E, the plurality of the resistance packs
138 is mounted on a splined portion 838 of the resistance axle 786
extending outward from the linearizing cam 704. The splined portion
838 of the resistance axle 786 is adapted to be received within the
center hubs 794 of each resistance pack 138. As such, the center
hubs 794 of each resistance pack do not rotate about the resistance
axle 786. A stop rod 840 extends outward from a bracket 842
connected with the upper cross member 182 on the main frame 106,
discussed above with reference to FIG. 3A. As shown in FIGS. 21A,
21B and 21D, the stop rod 840 extends outward from the bracket 842
and along the ledges 826 of each resistance pack. As shown in FIG.
21A an outer portion of the stop rod 840 extends radially inward to
connect with a distal end portion 844 of the resistance axle 786.
The resistance packs can be placed on the resistance axle so that
the when the ledges on the resistance packs are in contact with the
stop rod, the torsional spring is slightly stretched, which creates
a relatively small amount of pre-load resistance. The pre-load
resistance helps to hold the ledges 826 of the resistance packs 138
against the stop rod 840 and positions the apertures 830 on the
connection blocks 828 in a desired alignment with the selector
mechanism 788. As shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, a first resistance
pack 846 configured with a pre-load is connected with the
linearizing cam. As such, the ledges on the resistance packs abut
stop rod to the maintain the linearizing cam in a constant initial
starting position when not in use.
[0270] As previously mentioned, the selector mechanism 788 is used
to selectively connect the housings 792 of a desired number of
resistance packs 138 with the linearizing cam 704. As shown in
FIGS. 21A and 21B, the selector mechanism 788 includes a selector
plate 848 connected with an outer side of the linearizing cam 704
and extends outward adjacent to the ledges 826 and connection
blocks 828 on the resistance packs 138. A selector plate support
850 rotatably supported on the distal end portion 844 of resistance
axle 786 extends radially outward from the resistance axle and
connects with a distal end portion of the selector plate 848. As
such, the selector plate rotates about the resistance axle with the
linearizing cam. As shown in FIGS. 21A, 21B, 21D, and 21E, the
selector plate 848 supports a plurality of knobs 852 having pins
854 extending therefrom. The pins 854 are adapted to engage the
apertures 830 in the connection blocks 828 on each resistance pack.
For example, moving the knobs 852 toward the resistance packs 138
inserts the pins 854 into the apertures 830 on the connection
blocks 828, which connects the housings 792 of the resistance packs
138 with the selector plate 848. Therefore, when the knob is moved
to insert the pin in the connection block of a resistance pack, the
housing of the selected resistance pack rotates with the selector
plate and linearizing cam. As shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, some
embodiments of the present invention can include a counter weight
856 extending around the plurality of resistance packs 138 opposite
from the selector plate 848. The counter weight 856 is connected
with and rotates with the selector mechanism 788 and linearizing
cam 704. As such, the counter weight acts to cancel or eliminate
effects from the weight of the selector mechanism as it rotates
around the resistance axle.
[0271] A description of the operation of the components associated
with the cable-pulley system and resistance systems located on the
right and left sides of the exercise device is provided below with
reference to FIGS. 1A-21E. Descriptions of rotational directions
(i.e. clockwise and counterclockwise) are from a point of reference
as viewed from the right side of the exercise device.
[0272] When using right side of the exercise device, the user
applies a force to the first resistance cable 672, pulling the
first end 670 of the resistance cable from the distal pulley
housing 524 of the right arm assembly 518. Because the second end
686 of the first resistance cable 672 is terminated in the first
axle housing 552 on the right arm assembly, pulling the first end
of the first resistance cable from the right arm assembly causes
the floating pulley 680 of the right cable-pulley system 666 to
move upward. Movement of the floating pulley in the upward
direction causes the second resistance cable 690 to unwind from the
transmission pulley 694 on the right resistance system 130, which
rotates the transmission pulley in a clockwise direction around the
transmission axle 696. The three cams 706 also rotate clockwise
with the transmission pulley 694. As such, the third resistance
cable winds 692 onto the outer cam surface of the selected cam 716.
As the third resistance cable 692 winds onto the selected cam, the
third resistance cable unwinds from the linearizing cam 704, which
causes the linearizing cam to rotate counterclockwise around the
resistance axle 786. The selector mechanism 788 and counterweight
856 also rotate with the linearizing cam along with the housings
792 of the resistance packs 138 that have been connected with the
selector mechanism. The connected resistance packs provide a
resistance force to the third resistance cable 692 as the
linearizing cam of the right resistance system rotates counter
clockwise.
[0273] When the user releases the first resistance cable 672, the
resistance elements 790 of selected resistance packs 138 on the
right resistance system 130 force the housings 792 of the
resistance packs to rotate around the resistance axle 786 with the
selector mechanism 788 and linearizing cam 704 in the clockwise
direction until the ledges 826 on the housings of the resistance
packs 138 engage the stop rod 840. Rotation of the linearizing cam
704 in the clockwise direction unwinds the third resistance 692
from the selected cam, causing the three cams 706 and the
transmission pulley 694 to rotate counterclockwise. Rotation of the
transmission pulley 694 in the counterclockwise direction winds the
second resistance cable 690 back onto the transmission pulley,
which pulls the floating pulley 680 of the right cable-pulley
system 666 in a downward direction, which in turn, causes the first
resistance cable 672 to retract back into the right arm assembly
518.
[0274] When using left side of the exercise device, the user
applies a force to the first resistance cable 672, pulling the
first end 670 of the first resistance cable from the distal pulley
housing 524 of the left arm assembly 520. Because the second end
686 of the first resistance cable is terminated in the first axle
housing 552 on the left arm assembly, pulling the first end of the
first resistance cable from the left arm assembly causes the
floating pulley 680 of the left cable-pulley system 668 to move
upward. Movement of the floating pulley in the upward direction
causes the second resistance cable 690 to unwind from the
transmission pulley 694, which rotates the transmission pulley 694
in a clockwise direction around the transmission axle 696. The
three cams 706 also rotate clockwise with the transmission pulley
694. As such, the third resistance cable 692 winds onto the outer
cam surface of the selected cam 716. As the third resistance cable
winds onto the selected cam, the third resistance cable 692 unwinds
from the linearizing cam 704 of the left resistance system 132,
which causes the linearizing cam to rotate counterclockwise around
the resistance axle 786. The selector mechanism 788 and
counterweight 856 also rotate with the linearizing cam 704 along
with the resistance packs 138 that have been connected with the
selector mechanism. The selected resistance packs provide a
resistance force to the third resistance cable as the linearizing
cam of the left resistance system rotates counter clockwise.
[0275] When the user releases the first resistance cable 672, the
resistance elements 790 in the selected resistance packs 138 of the
left resistance system 132 force the housings 792 of the resistance
packs to rotate around the resistance axle 786 with the selector
mechanism 788 and linearizing cam 704 in the clockwise direction
until the ledges 826 on the housings of the resistance packs engage
the stop rod 840. Rotation of the linearizing cam 704 in the
clockwise direction unwinds the third resistance 692 from the
selected cam, causing the three cams 706 and the transmission
pulley 694 to rotate counterclockwise. Rotation of the transmission
pulley in the counterclockwise direction winds the second
resistance cable 690 back onto the transmission pulley, which pulls
the floating pulley 680 of the left cable-pulley system 668 in the
downward direction, which in turn, causes the first resistance
cable to retract back into the left arm assembly 520.
[0276] FIGS. 22A-22G show an alternative exercise device 858
conforming to aspects of the present invention. The exercise device
allows a user to perform various exercises and includes an
adjustable bench assembly 860 connected with a main frame 862. The
main frame supports adjustable arm assemblies 864 and cable-pulley
assemblies 866 providing a user interface with a resistance system
868, which is also supported on the main frame. Structurally, the
exercise device of FIGS. 22A-22G varies from the devices of FIGS.
1A-1D in several ways. For example, the alternative exercise device
858 does not include a multi-axis release mechanism for the arm
assemblies, an adjustment mechanism to selectively adjust the force
curve, and a selector mechanism to select the amount of resistance.
Instead, the resistance system 868 of the alternative exercise
device 858 includes right and left resistance systems 870, 872,
each utilizing a plurality of removable resistance packs 874
adapted to connect with each other, enabling the user to change the
amount of resistance. The resistance system is partially covered by
shroud members 876 supported by the main frame. Each of the right
and left resistance systems also include a tensioning mechanism 878
to adjust the tension of a portion of the cable-pulley assembly. In
addition, the main frame 862 of the alternative embodiment 858 is
configured differently than the frame of earlier embodiments. For
example, the alternative embodiment includes a forward bench
support 880 that automatically folds inward when the exercise
device is placed in the storage configuration.
[0277] As shown in FIGS. 22A-22G, the exercise device can be
configured with various accessories to allow a user to perform
various types of exercises. The exercise device 858 includes a
bench frame 882 supporting the adjustable bench assembly 860 having
an adjustable back support 882 and bench seat 884. The bench frame
882 includes a seat rail 888 with a first end portion 890 pivotally
connected with the main frame 862 and a second end portion 892
supported by the forward bench support 880. The main frame 862 also
supports right and left adjustable arm assemblies 894, 896 and
cable-pulley assemblies 898, 900 that provide a user interface with
the right and left resistance systems 870, 872. The adjustable arm
assemblies 894, 896 are pivotally connected with the frame 862 to
provide the user with the ability to adjust the position of the arm
assemblies along vertically oriented arcs. The resistance systems
870, 872 are also connected with and are supported by the main
frame 862. Each resistance system includes a transmission assembly
902 and resistance assembly 904. The transmission assembly 902
includes the previously mentioned tensioning mechanism 878, but
does not include a cam selector and a plurality of selectable cams
as described above with reference to earlier embodiments. However,
it is to be appreciated that the selectable cams described above
may be utilized with the exercise device of FIGS. 22A-22G. The
resistance assemblies 870, 872 utilize resistance packs 874 similar
to those used with earlier embodiments; however, the resistance
systems do not include a selector mechanism to allow a user to
select the amount of resistance. Instead, the user stacks a desired
number of resistance packs 874 onto a resistance axle 906 to select
the amount of resistance. As described below, the resistance packs
have interconnecting housings. It should be appreciated, however,
that the selector mechanism of earlier embodiments may be employed
in the exercise device 858 of FIGS. 22A-22G.
[0278] Similar to earlier embodiments, the forward bench support
880 of the exercise device 858 is pivotally connected with the seat
rail 888. In addition, the first end portion 890 of the seat rail
892 is pivotally connected with the frame 862, which allows a user
to place the exercise device 858 in a storage configuration, as
shown in FIG. 22G, wherein the second end portion 892 of the seat
rail 888 is rotated upward toward the frame until the seat rail is
substantially vertical with respect to the support surface.
Further, the back support 884 and the bench seat 886 are adjustably
coupled with the bench frame 882. More particularly, the bench seat
886 is rollingly connected with the seat rail 888 such that the
bench seat can roll back and forth along the length of the seat
rail. As shown in FIGS. 22A-22G, the bench seat can also be
selectively locked into various positions along the length of the
seat rail as well as being configured to roll freely back and forth
along the seat rail. As shown in FIGS. 22A, 22C, and 22D, the back
support 884 is not fixedly connected with the exercise device 858,
and as such, is removable. When the bench seat 886 is positioned on
the seat rail 888 in a rearward direction relatively close to the
frame 862, the back support 884 can be placed in an inclined
position supported between the bench seat 886 the frame 862, as
shown in FIG. 22D.
[0279] As previously mentioned, the main frame 862 supports the
resistance system 868, the adjustable arm assemblies 864, the
cable-pulley assembly 866, and the first end portion 890 of the
seat rail 888. As shown in FIGS. 23A-23B, and others, the main
frame 862 includes an upright structure 908 connected with a base
structure 910, which includes a platform plate 912 supported on a
base frame 914. The base frame 914 includes right and left base
members 916, 918 connected with and separated by a front cross
member 920 and first and second rear cross members 922, 924 to
define a substantially square shape. The platform plate 912 is
connected with and is supported on upper surfaces of the members
defining the base frame 914. Right and left plate support members
926, 928 extending between the front cross member 920 and the first
and second rear cross members 922, 924 provide additional support
to the platform plate.
[0280] As shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B, right and left wheels 930,
932 are rotatably connected with the front cross member 920 that
allow a user to maneuver the exercise device along a support
surface from one location to another. Although the exercise device
includes wheels, it is to be appreciated that the exercise device
can also include rollers, skid plates, or other components to
assist with maneuvering the exercise device. When the main frame
862 is supported by the base frame, the wheels are positioned
adjacent to and slightly above the support surface. To move the
exercise device from one location to another, a user can place the
exercise device 858 in the storage configuration shown in FIG. 22G.
Once in the storage configuration, the user can pivot the main
frame 862 forward to bring the wheels 930, 932 into engagement with
the support surface. The user can then roll the exercise device
along the support surface to a desired location.
[0281] As shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B, the base frame 914 also
includes a generally L-shaped center support member 934 having a
base portion 936 and an upright portion 938. More particularly, the
base portion 936 of the center support member 934 extends
rearwardly from the front cross member 920, between the first and
second rear cross members 924, 926, and from under the base plate
to the upwardly extending upright portion 938. A rear base member
940 which adds lateral support to the frame 862 is connected with
the center support member 934 through rear support brackets 942
connected with the base portion and the upright portion of the
center support member.
[0282] Referring to FIGS. 23A, 23B, and others, the upright
structure 908 includes an arm support member 944 extending upward
from the top surface of the base portion 936 of the center support
member 934. A pair of forward side support brackets 946 and a
center support bracket 948 are connected with the arm support
member 944 and the center support member 934. A transmission
support member 950 extends rearward from the arm support member 944
and connects with the upright portion 938 of the center support
member 948. A resistance support member 952 extends rearward from
the arm support member 944 above the transmission support member
950 and connects with the upright portion 938 of the center support
member 934. As shown in FIG. 23C, a lower foot plate 954 assembly
is connected with and extends forward from a lower portion on the
arm support member 944. The lower foot plate assembly 954 includes
a housing 956 extending forward from the arm support member 944 and
is defined by right and left side plates 958, 960 separated by a
top side plate 962. The right and left side plates are connected
with right and left sides of the arm support member. Right and left
foot plates 964, 966 extend outward from the right side plate and
the left side plate. The foot plates provide platforms upon which a
user can place his feet when performing various exercises, such as
leg press exercises.
[0283] As shown in FIGS. 22B, 22G, 23C, and others, the seat rail
888 is pivotally connected with and extends forward from the lower
foot plate assembly 954. More particularly, the first end portion
890 of the seat rail 888 is pivotally connected with a first seat
rail axle 968 supported between the right and left side plates 958,
960 of the lower foot plate assembly 954. The bench frame 882 also
includes a bottom rail 970 pivotally connected with the lower foot
plate assembly 954 through a first bottom rail axle 972. More
particularly, the first bottom rail axle 972 is supported between
the right and left side plates 958, 960 of the lower foot plate
assembly below and forward of the first seat rail axle 968. The
bottom rail 970 is a generally elongate member with first and
second end portions 974, 976, the first end portion being angled
upwardly from a mid portion 978. The first end portion 974 of the
bottom rail 970 is pivotally connected with the first bottom rail
axle 972. The bottom rail 970 is located under the seat rail 888
and extends forward from the first bottom rail axle in a direction
generally parallel with the seat rail 888 to the second end portion
976 of the bottom rail 970. As discussed in more detail below, when
the exercise device is placed in the storage configuration, the
bottom rail acts to pull the forward bench support 880 inward
toward the bottom rail 970 and the seat rail 888.
[0284] As shown in FIGS. 22B, 22G, 24A, and others, the forward
bench support 880 is pivotally connected with and adjustably
supports the second end portions of the seat rail 888 and the
bottom rail 970 above the support surface. The forward bench
support 880 includes a cross member 980 having a pair of end caps
982 at opposing end portions thereof adapted to engage the support
surface. Right and left support members 984, 986 extend upward from
opposing end portions of a support bracket 988 connected with the
cross member 980. A handle 990 connected with and extending along a
front side of the cross member 980 can be used to lift the second
end portions of the bottom rail 970 and seat rail 888 when placing
the exercise device 858 in the storage configuration. The forward
bench support 880 can also include a collar support bracket 992
connected between the right and left support members 984, 986. It
is to be appreciated that the forward bench support can include
additional components for added rigidity, stability, and/or
strength. For example, the forward bench support 880 includes a
U-shaped gusset 994 connected with the support members and support
bracket. The collar support bracket 992 can be connected with an
accessory support member or collar 996 adapted to receive a support
post 998 connected with an exercise accessory 1000, such as a
preacher curl accessory 1000 shown in FIGS. 22E and 22F. The
accessory support collar 996 can also include an accessory pop-pin
1004 adapted to engage apertures on the exercise accessory support
post for selective height adjustment of the exercise accessory.
Also, a leg developer assembly 1006 can be pivotally supported
between the right and left support members 984, 986.
[0285] As shown in FIGS. 22G and 24A-24C, the second end portion
892 of the seat rail 888 is connected with the second end portion
976 of the bottom rail 970 through the right and left support
members 984, 986 of the forward bench support 880. More
particularly, the second end portion 892 of the seat rail 888 is
pivotally connected with the forward bench support through a second
seat rail axle 1008, and the second end portion of the bottom rail
is pivotally connected with the forward bench support through a
second bottom rail axle 1010. As shown in FIGS. 22G and 24A-24C,
and others, upper regions 1012 of the support members 984, 986
adjacent to right and left sides of the second end portion 892 of
seat rail 888 are pivotally connected with opposing end portions of
the second seat axle 1008. Mid regions 1014 of the support members
adjacent to right and left sides of the second end portion 976 of
the bottom rail 970 are pivotally connected with opposing end
portions of the second bottom rail axle 1010.
[0286] As previously mentioned, the bottom rail 970 acts on the
support members 984, 986 to fold the forward bench support 880
inward and upward toward the bottom rail 970 when the bench frame
882 is moved from the downward operative position to the upright
storage position. FIG. 22B shows the exercise device 858 with the
bench frame 882 in the downward position, and FIG. 22G shows the
exercise device with the bench frame in the upright position. The
bench frame 882 is placed in the upright position by pivoting the
seat rail 888 and bottom rail 970 upward in a clockwise direction
(as viewed from the right side of the exercise device) around the
first seat rail axle and the first bottom rail axle, respectively.
As the seat rail and bottom rail pivot clockwise, the second end
portions of the seat rail 888 and the bottom rail 970 move along
arcs that are not parallel. More particularly, because the first
seat rail axle 968 is located above and rearward of the first
bottom rail axle 972, the second end portion 976 of the bottom rail
970 and the second bottom rail axle 1010 move rearward and upward
relative to the second end portion 892 of the seat rail 888 and the
second seat rail axle 1008. The movement of the second end portion
976 of the bottom rail 970 with respect to the second end portion
892 of the seat rail 888 causes the second bottom rail axle to pull
on the mid regions 1014 of the support members 984, 986, which in
turn, causes the support members to pivot counterclockwise (as
viewed from the right side of the exercise device) around the
second seat rail axle 1008. As the support members pivot
counterclockwise around the second seat rail axle, lower regions
1016 of the support members 984, 986 and the cross member 980 pivot
toward the bottom rail 970.
[0287] Conversely, when moving the bench frame 882 from the upright
position (FIG. 22G) to the downward position (FIG. 22B), the bottom
rail 970 acts on the support members 984, 986 to extend the forward
bench support 880 outward and downward away from the bottom rail
970. The bench frame 882 is placed in the downward position by
pivoting the seat rail 888 and bottom rail 970 counterclockwise (as
viewed from the right side of the exercise device) around the first
seat rail axle 968 and the first bottom rail axle 972,
respectively. As the seat rail 888 and bottom rail 970 pivot
counterclockwise, the second end portions of the seat rail and the
bottom rail move along arcs that are not parallel. More
particularly, the second end portion 976 of the bottom rail 970 and
the second bottom rail axle 1010 move forward and downward relative
to the second end portion 892 seat rail 888 and the second seat
rail axle 1008. The movement of the second end portion 976 of the
bottom rail 970 with respect to the second end portion 892 of the
seat rail 888 causes the second bottom rail axle 1010 to push on
the mid regions 1014 of the support members 984, 986, which in
turn, causes the support members to pivot clockwise (as viewed from
the right side of the exercise device) around the second seat rail
axle 1008. As the support members 984, 986 pivot clockwise around
the second seat rail axle 1008, the lower regions 1016 of the
support members 984, 986 and the cross member 980 pivot away from
the bottom rail 970.
[0288] The exercise device 858 can also include a pop-pin 1018 or
similar device to selectively lock the bench frame 882 in the
downward and upright positions. As shown in FIGS. 24A-24C, the
pop-pin 1018 is connected with the left support member 986 of the
forward bench support 880. The pop-pin 1018 is adapted to
selectively connect the forward bench support 880 with the bench
frame 882. More particularly, as shown in FIGS. 24B and 24C, right
and left extension plates 1020, 1022 rotatably supporting two
pulleys 1024 are connected with the second end portion 976 of the
bottom rail 970. As discussed in more detail below, the two pulleys
1024 are adapted to interact with the cable-pulley assembly. The
pop-pin 1018 is spring loaded and adapted to selectively engage
apertures in the left extension plate 1022 to selectively lock the
bench frame 882 in the downward and/or upright positions. As shown
in FIG. 24B, the pop-pin can include a body housing a spring
operably connected with a pin. The spring acts to force the pin
through the left support member 986 and against the left extension
plate 1022. The pin can be disengaged from the left extension plate
1022 by pulling on a handle 1032 connected with the pin in a
direction away from the left extension plate. The pop-pin 1018 is
adapted to engage a first aperture 1034 and a second aperture 1036
in the left extension plate. As discussed in more detail below,
when the pop-pin 1018 engages the first aperture 1034, the bench
frame 882 is selectively locked into the downward position.
Alternatively, when the pop-pin 1018 is engages the second aperture
1036, the bench frame 882 is selectively locked into the upright
position. It is to be appreciated that the pop-pin 1018 can be
located on other locations on the exercise device, such as on the
right support member 984. It is also to be appreciated that the
bench frame can be configured to be selectively locked in only the
upright or downward positions and need not be configured to be
selectively locked in both the downward and upright positions.
[0289] FIG. 22B shows the bench frame 882 locked in the downward
position with the pin 1030 of the pop-pin 1018 engaged with the
first aperture 1034 in the left extension plate 1022. When the
pop-pin 1030 is engaged with the first aperture 1034, the left
support member 986 of the forward bench support 880 is connected
with the bottom rail 970 through the left extension plate 1022 as
well as the second bottom rail axle 1010. As such, the left support
member 986 is selectively locked into a fixed position relative to
the bottom rail 970, which in turn, prevents the forward bench
support 880 from pivoting about the second seat rail axle 1008. As
described above, relative movement between the second seat rail
axle and second bottom rail axle when placing the bench frame in
the upright position causes the support members 984, 986 of the
forward bench support 880 to pivot clockwise (as viewed from the
right side of the exercise device) around the second seat rail axle
1008. However, when the pop-pin 1018 is engaged with the first
aperture 1034, the forward bench support is prevented from pivoting
around the first pivot axle, locking the bench frame in the
downward position.
[0290] To place the bench frame 880 in the storage position, as
shown in FIG. 22G, the pop-pin 1018 is first disengaged from the
first aperture 1034 of the left extension plate 1022 by pulling the
handle 1032 away from the left extension plate. The second end
portions of the seat rail 888 and bottom rail 970 are then lifted
and pivoted clockwise (as viewed from the right side of the
exercise device) around the first seat rail axle 968 and the first
bottom rail axle 972. As described above, the movement of the
second end portion 976 of the bottom rail 970 with respect to the
second end portion 892 of the seat rail 888 causes the forward
bench support to pivot counterclockwise (as viewed from the right
side of the exercise device) around the second seat rail axle 1008.
As the forward bench support pivots counterclockwise around the
second seat rail axle, the lower regions 1016 of the support
members 984, 986 and the cross member 980 move toward the bottom
rail 970. In addition, the pop-pin 1018 connected with the left
support member 986 moves toward the bottom rail 970 until the
pop-pin 1018 is aligned with and engaged with the second aperture
1036 in the left extension plate 1022, locking the bench frame in
the upright position.
[0291] FIG. 22G shows the bench frame 882 locked in the upright
position with the pop-pin 1018 engaged with the second aperture
1036 in the left extension plate 1022. When the pop-pin is engaged
with the second aperture in the left extension plate, the left
support member 986 of the forward bench support 880 is connected
with the bottom rail 970 through the left extension plate 1022 as
well as the second bottom rail axle 1010. As such, the left support
member 986 is selectively locked into a fixed position relative to
the bottom rail 970, which in turn, prevents the forward bench
support 880 from pivoting about the second seat rail axle 1008. As
described above, relative movement between the second seat rail
axle and the second bottom rail axle when placing the bench frame
in the downward position causes the forward bench support to pivot
clockwise (as viewed from the right side of the exercise device)
around the second seat rail axle. However, when the pop-pin 1018 is
engaged with the second aperture 1036, the forward bench support
880 is prevented from pivoting around the second seat rail axle.
Therefore, the bench frame is locked in the upright position when
the pop-pin is received within the second aperture.
[0292] From the storage position of FIG. 22G, when placing the
bench frame 880 in the operative position shown in FIG. 22B, the
pop-pin 1018 is disengaged from the second aperture 1036 of the
left extension plate 1022. The second end portions of the seat rail
888 and bottom rail 970 are then moved downward and are pivoted
counterclockwise (as viewed from the right side of the exercise
device) around the first seat rail axle 968 and the first bottom
rail axle 972. As described above, the movement of the second end
portion 976 of the bottom rail 970 with respect to the second end
portion 892 of the seat rail 888 causes the second bottom rail axle
976 to push on the mid regions 1014 of the support members 984,
986, which in turn, causes the forward bench support 880 to pivot
clockwise (as viewed from the right side of the exercise device)
around the second seat rail axle 1008. As the support members pivot
clockwise around the second seat rail axle, the lower regions 1016
of the support members 984, 986 and the cross member 980 move away
from the bottom rail 970. In addition, the pop-pin 1018 connected
with the left support member 986 moves away from the bottom rail
until the pop-pin is aligned with and engaged with the first
aperture 1034 in the left extension plate 1022, locking the bench
frame in the downward position.
[0293] An alternative embodiment of a forward bench support 880' is
shown in FIGS. 25A-25C. As with the forward bench support 880
described above, the forward bench support 880' automatically folds
inward toward the seat rail 970 and bottom rail 888 when placing
the bench frame 882 in the storage configuration. However, the
forward bench support 880' shown in FIGS. 25A-25C also provides for
selective adjustment of the seat rail incline. The forward bench
support is pivotally connected with and adjustably supports the
second end portion 892 of the seat rail 888 above the support
surface. The forward bench support 880' includes a cross member
980' having a pair of end caps 982' at opposing end portions
thereof adapted to engage the support surface. Right and left
support members 984', 986' extending upward from the cross member
980' include apertures adapted to receive opposing end portions of
a second seat rail axle 1008'. The second seat rail axle 1008', in
turn, is supported by an axle support member 1038 extending
downward from the second end portion 892 of the seat rail 888.
[0294] As shown in FIGS. 25A-25C, the second end portion 892 of the
seat rail 888 is connected with the second end portion 976 of the
bottom rail 970 through right and left pivot plates 1040, 1042. The
pivot plates are generally triangularly-shaped, defining a first
corner region 1044, a second corner region 1046, and a third corner
region 1048. The first corner regions 1044 of the pivot plates
1040, 1042 are pivotally connected with opposing end portions of a
first corner pivot axle 1045. The second corner regions 1046 of the
pivot plates are adjacent to right and left extension plates 1020',
1022' connected with the second end portion 976 of the bottom rail
970 and are pivotally connected with opposing end portions of a
second bottom rail axle 1010'. As discussed in more detail below, a
leg developer assembly can also be pivotally connected with the
third corner regions of the pivot plates through a third pivot
axle.
[0295] As previously mentioned, the right and left extension plates
1020', 1022' connect the second end portion 976 of the bottom rail
970 with the forward bench support 880', and more particularly,
with the right and left support members 984', 986', respectively.
As shown in FIGS. 25B and 25C the right and left extension plates
1020', 1022' are substantially mirror images of each other, each
plate defining a forward side region 1050, a rear side region 1052,
a top side region 1054, and a bottom side region 1056. Each plate
includes a slot 1058 adapted to receive a pin 1060 extending
outward from each support member 984', 986'. The slot 1058 includes
an arcuate upper portion 1062 and an arcuate lower portion 1064.
The lower portion 1064 of the slot 1058 generally extends from the
rear side region 1052 of the extension plate to the forward side
region 1050. From a forward end of the lower portion of the slot,
the upper portion 1062 of the slot 1058 extends upward toward the
top side region 1054 of the extension plate and curves toward the
forward side region 1050. A pop-pin 1018' supported on the left
extension plate 1022' is adapted to engage a first aperture 1066
and a second aperture 1068 on the left support member 986' of the
forward bench support 880'. As discussed in greater detail below,
when the forward bench support is pivoted, either for different use
configurations or for the storage position, the pop-pin is
disengaged and when the bench is pivoted, the pins 1060 move along
the slots 1058.
[0296] The forward bench support 880' of FIGS. 25A-25C can be
pivoted around the second seat rail axle 1008' to adjust the height
and level of the seat rail 888. In a configuration where the seat
rail 888 inclines from the first end portion 890 to the second end
portion 892, the pop-pin 1018' on the left extension plate 1022' is
engaged with the first aperture 1066 in the left support member
986'. In addition, the pins 1060 extending from the right and left
support members 984', 986' are generally located where the upper
and lower portions 1062, 1064 of the slots 1058 intersect. To lower
the elevation of the second end portion 892 of the seat rail 888,
the pop-pin 1018' is disengaged from the first aperture 1066, and
the forward bench support 880' is pivoted rearwardly around the
second seat rail axle 1008' until the pop-pin 1018' engages the
second aperture 1068. As the forward bench support pivots
rearwardly, the pins 1060 extending from the right and left support
members 984', 986' move rearward along the lower portions 1064 of
the slots 1058 in the extension plates 1020', 1022'.
[0297] As previously mentioned, the bench frame 882 having the
forward bench support 880' of FIGS. 25A-25C can also be placed in a
storage configuration with the seat rail 888 rotated upward toward
the frame 862 until the seat rail is substantially vertical with
respect to the support surface. The seat rail 888 can also be
selectively locked in the storage position. To place the bench
frame 882 in the storage configuration, the pop-pin 1018' on the
left extension plate 1022' is disengaged from either the first
aperture 1066 or second aperture 1068. If the forward bench support
880' is in a rearward pivotal position, the forward bench support
is first pivoted around the second seat rail axle 1008' to place
the pins 1060 extending from the right and left support members
984', 986' near the intersection of the upper and lower portions
1062, 1064 of the respective slots 1058. The second end portion 892
of the seat rail 888 is then lifted upward so the seat rail and
bottom rail 970 pivot clockwise (as viewed from the right side of
the exercise device) around the first seat rail axle 968 and the
first bottom rail axle 972, respectively. Handles 1070 connected
with the right and left pivot plates 1040, 1042 can be used to lift
the second end portion of the seat rail.
[0298] As the second end portion 892 of the seat rail 888 pivots
upward, the bottom rail 970 acts on the pivot plates 1040, 1042 to
fold the forward bench support 880' inward and upward toward the
bottom rail 970. As discussed above, the second end portions of the
seat rail 888 and the bottom rail 970 move along arcs that are not
parallel as the bottom rail and seat rail pivot clockwise around
the first seat rail axle and the first bottom rail axle. As such,
the second end portion 976 of the bottom rail 970 moves rearward
and downward relative to the second end portion 892 of the seat
rail 888. The relative movement of the second end portions of the
bottom rail and seat rail causes the second bottom rail axle 1010'
to pull on the second corner regions 1046 of the pivot plates 1040,
1042, which in turn, causes the pivot plates to pivot
counterclockwise (as viewed from the right side of the exercise
device) around the first corner pivot axle 1045. Rotation of the
pivot plates counterclockwise around the first corner pivot axle
also moves the third corner regions 1048 of the pivot plates into
general alignment with the seat rail. Further, as the pivot plates
pivot counterclockwise around the second seat rail axle, the pins
1060 extending from the right and left support members 984', 986'
move upward and forward along the upper portions 1062 of the slots
in the extension plates 1020', 1022', which guides the forward
bench support pivotal motion counterclockwise (as viewed from the
right side of the exercise device) around the first corner pivot
axle 1045 until the pop-pin 1018' engages the second aperture 1068,
which locks the seat rail 888 into the storage configuration.
[0299] As previously mentioned, the bench seat 886 of the exercise
device 858 of FIGS. 22A-22G is adjustably connected with the bench
frame 882. As shown in FIGS. 26A-26B and others, the bench seat is
connected with the seat rail 888 through a wheel car assembly 1072
that allows a user roll the bench seat 886 back and forth along the
length of the seat rail 888. The wheel car assembly 1072 of FIGS.
26A-26B is different than the wheel car assembly described above
with reference to the first embodiments of the exercise device. The
wheel car assembly 1072 includes a main body 1074 defined by right
and left sides 1076, 1078 connected with and separated by a top
side 1080. The top side 1080 supports a padded portion 1082 of the
bench seat 886. A bench seat pop-pin 1084 is supported on the left
side 1078 of the wheel car assembly 1072 and is adapted to engage
apertures 1086 on a left side 1088 of the seat rail 888. As
described in more detail below, a user can selectively fix the
bench seat in a desired location along the length of the seat rail
and can also configure the bench seat pop-pin, so the bench seat
can freely roll back and forth along the length of the seat
rail.
[0300] As shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B, the wheel car assembly 1072
includes a forward upper axle 1090 and a rear upper axle 1092 are
connected with and extend through the right and left sides 1076,
1078 adjacent the top side 1080 of the main body 1074. The upper
axles 1090, 1092 each support left and right rollers 1094, 1096
adapted to roll along a top side 1098 of the seat rail 888. Each
roller includes a cylindrical portion 1100 and a ledged portion
1102. The cylindrical portion 1100 defines a constant radius flat
rolling surface adapted to engage the top side 1098 of the seat
rail 888. The ledged portion 1102 defines an increasing radius
rolling surface adapted to engage upper right and left corner
regions 1104, 1106 of the seat rail 888. The ledged portions 1102
of the rollers act as thrust bearings to absorb forces exerted on
the bench seat 886 that have a sideway component perpendicular to
the length seat rail 888. As such, the ledged portions of the
rollers help to keep the wheel car assembly aligned with the seat
rail as it rolls back and forth along the length of the seat
rail.
[0301] As shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B, the wheel car assembly 1072
also includes a forward lower axle 1108 and rear lower axle 1110
connected with and extending through the right and left sides 1076,
1078 of the main body 1074 below the upper axles 1090, 1092. The
lower axles each support left and right rollers 1094', 1096'
adapted to roll along a bottom side 1112 of the seat rail 888.
Similar to the rollers connected with the upper axles, each roller
supported by the lower axles include cylindrical portions 1100' and
ledged portions 1102'. The cylindrical portion defines a flat
rolling surface adapted to engage the bottom side 1112 of the seat
rail 888, and the ledged portion defines an increasing radius
(inside to outer edge) rolling surface adapted to engage lower
right and left corner regions 1114, 1116 of the seat rail 888. The
combination of the rollers engaging the top and bottom sides of the
seat rail act prevent the bench seat 886 from tipping forward or
backward or otherwise disengaging from the seat rail 888.
[0302] As previously mentioned, the bench seat 886 can be
configured to either roll freely along the length of the seat rail
888, or can be selectively locked into various positions along the
length of the seat rail. More particularly, the bench seat pop-pin
1084 on the left side 1072 of the wheel car assembly 1072 is
adapted to selectively engage apertures 1086 in the left side 1088
the seat rail 888 to selectively lock the bench seat 886 into a
desired positioned along the length of the seat rail. For example,
the bench seat pop-pin can be disengaged from an aperture on the
seat rail, which allows the bench seat to roll backward or forward
to a desired position along the length of the seat rail. Once the
bench seat is rolled to a desired location along the seat rail, the
bench seat pop-pin be engaged with another aperture in the seat
rail to lock the bench seat into the desired position.
[0303] As shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B, the bench seat pop-pin 1084
is spring-loaaded and includes a body 118 housing a spring operably
connected with a pin. The spring acts to force the pin to engage
the pop-pin 1084 with the left side 1088 of the seat rail 888. The
pop-pin 1084 can be disengaged from the seat rail 888 by pulling on
a handle 1124 connected with the pin in a direction away from the
left side 1088 of the seat rail 888. When moving the bench seat 886
from a first location to a second along the seat rail, a user can
pull the handle 1124 to disengage the pop-pin 1084 from the seat
rail 888. While holding the pop-pin in disengagement from the seat
rail, the bench seat 886 can be rolled to the second location. Once
the bench seat is in the second location, the handle 1124 can be
released, which allows the spring to force the pop-pin 1084 back
into engagement with the seat rail 888. If the pop-pin 1084 is
aligned with one of the apertures 1086 in the left side 1088 of the
seat rail 888, the pin will extend into one of the apertures,
locking the bench seat 886 into the second position. If the pop-pin
1084 is not aligned with one of the apertures 1086, the pin will be
forced against the left side 1088 of the seat rail 888. The bench
seat 886 can then be rolled backward and forward until the pop-pin
is aligned with and engages one of the apertures.
[0304] As previously mentioned, the bench seat 886 can also be
configured to roll freely along the seat rail 888. More
particularly, the bench seat pop-pin 1084 can be selectively
configured to disable the spring-loaded feature so the pop-pin does
not engage the left side 1088 of the seat rail 888. As shown in
FIGS. 26A and 26B, the body 1118 of the bench seat pop-pin 1084
includes a first pair of channels 1126 and a second pair of
channels 1128 extending inward from a distal end portion of the
body 1118. The channels 1126, 1128 are adapted to receive opposing
end portions of a shaft 1130 extending through the pop-pin. As
such, the channels act to limit the distance that the pin 1122 can
extend from the body 1118 toward the seat rail 888. A user can
align the shaft 1130 with either pair of channels by pulling the
handle 1124 outward from the body 1118 and turning the handle to
align the shaft with the desired pair of channels. As shown in
FIGS. 26A and 26B, when the shaft 1130 is aligned to be received
within the first pair of channels 1126, the pin can extend far
enough toward the seat rail 888 to engage one of the apertures,
which prevents the bench seat 886 from freely rolling along the
seat rail 888. The second pair of channels 1128 are shorter than
the first pair of channels 1126. As such, when the shaft is
received within the second pair of channels 1128, the pin does not
extend far enough from the body to engage the seat rail 888.
Therefore, when the shaft is received within the second pair of
channels 1128, the bench seat 886 can freely roll back and forth
along the seat rail 888 without the spring forcing the pop-pin into
engagement with the left side 1088 of the seat rail 888 and into
one of the apertures 1086.
[0305] As previously mentioned, the back support 884 of the bench
assembly 860 is adjustable and removable. More particularly, the
back support 884 is adapted to selectively connect with bench seat
886, seat rail 888, and the arm support member 944. As shown in
FIGS. 27A, 27B, and others, the back support 884 includes forward
and rear padded portions 1132, 1134 mounted on right and left back
support rails 1136, 1138. Forward end portions of the back support
rails each define bench seat hooks 1140 adapted to receive extended
end portions 1142 of the forward upper axle 1090 extending outward
from the right and left sides 1076, 1078 of the wheel car assembly
1072 (see FIG. 26B). Rear end portions of the back support rails
1136, 1138 are connected with opposing end portions of a back
support handle 1144. As shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B, the rear padded
portion 1134 of the back support 884 is further supported by a back
support member 1146. The back support member 1146 defines a
U-shaped channel 1148 adapted to fit over the seat rail 888.
[0306] Referring to FIGS. 22C, 27A, and 27B, the bench seat 886 and
the back support 884 can be connected together on top of the seat
rail 888 to form a flat bench 1150. To form the flat bench, the
bench seat 886 is locked in position near the second end portion
892 of the seat rail 888 and the bench seat hooks 1140 on the back
support are connected with the extended portions 1142 of the
forward upper axle 1090 on the bench seat 886. The U-shaped channel
1148 in the back support member 1146 is positioned over the seat
rail 888. Because the U-shaped channel engages opposing sides of
the seat rail 888, the back support member 1146 adds lateral
stability to the back support which helps prevent the back support
from tipping side-to-side on the seat rail. As shown in FIGS. 22D,
23A, and 23B, the back support 884 can also be connected between
the bench seat 886 and hook brackets 1152 on the arm support member
944 such that the back support is inclined relative to the bench
seat. The hook brackets 1152 are connected with and extend forward
from the front side of the arm support member. Upper portions of
the hook brackets are recessed to defined arcuate channels 1154
adapted to receive and support the back support handle 1144. In the
inclined position, the bench seat 886 is locked in a position
between the second end portion 890 and first end portion 892 of the
seat rail 888. The bench seat hooks 1140 on the back support 884
are connected with the extended portions 1142 of the forward upper
axle 1090 on the bench seat 886, and the back support handle 1144
is supported by the hook brackets 1152 connected with the arm
support member 944.
[0307] As shown in FIGS. 22E, 28A-28C, and others, the exercise
device 858 can also include a removable foot plate assembly 1156
adapted to connect with the arm support member 944. The removable
foot plate assembly may be used to perform various exercises, such
as squat exercises. The removable foot plate assembly 1156 includes
a foot plate 1158 connected with a frame 1160 having right and left
sides 1162, 1164 connected with and separated by a center member
1166. The center member 1166 is generally U-shaped with first and
second sides 1168, 1170 connected with and separated by a base side
1172. The right and left sides 1162, 1164 of the frame 1160 are
defined by a first portion 1174 angularly offset from a second
portion 1176. The first portions 1174 of the right and left sides
1162, 1164 are connected with the first and second sides 1168, 1170
of the center member 1166 such that first portions extend rearward
from the base side 1172 of the center member 1166, defining a rear
U-shaped channel 1178 adapted to receive the arm support member
944. The foot plate 1158 is connected with forward extending edges
of the second portions 1176 of the right and left sides 1162, 1164
as well as forward extending edges of the first and second sides
1168, 1170 of the center member 1166. The foot plate defines a
curved shape, and as such, the forward extending edges of the frame
correspondingly curve to connect with the foot plate. The removable
foot plate assembly also includes right and left foot pads 1180,
1182 connected with the foot plate.
[0308] As shown in FIGS. 28A-28C, the removable foot plate assembly
1156 also includes a handle bar 1184 extending between the right
and left sides 1162, 1164 of the frame 1160 near a top end portion
of the U-shaped channel 1178. When connected with the exercise
device 858, the removable foot plate assembly 1156 is supported
from the handle bar 1184, which is received in the arcuate channels
1154 of the hook brackets 1152 on the arm support member 944. The
arm support member 944 is also received within the U-shaped channel
1178 on the rear side of the foot plate assembly 1156. The U-shaped
channel engages opposing sides of the arm support member to provide
lateral stability to the foot plate assembly, which helps prevent
the foot plate assembly from tipping side-to-side on the arm
support member. As shown in FIGS. 28B and 28C, padding 1186 can be
connected with the U-shaped channel 1178 to help prevent the arm
support member 944 being scratched or otherwise damaged from
repeated removal and installation of the removable foot plate
assembly. To reduce the weight of the foot plate assembly, material
sections can be removed out from portions of the frame, forming a
webbed structure 1188 in the second portions of the right and left
sides.
[0309] As shown in FIGS. 22E, 29A, and 29B, the alternative
exercise device 858 can include a removable leg press seat back
1190. The removable leg press seat back 1190 provides a surface
against which a user can press with his back when sitting on the
bench seat 886 while performing leg press exercises. As shown in
FIGS. 29A and 29B, right and left rails 1192, 1194 extend downward
from a back side 1196 of the removable leg press seat back. The
right and left rails include upper hooks 1198 and lower hooks 1200
adapted to connect with the rear upper axle 1092 and the rear lower
axle 1110, respectively, on the wheel car assembly 1072. Each upper
hook 1198 defines an opening 1202 to an arcuate recess 1204 on a
rear edge 1206 of the connection rail adapted to receive the
extended end portions 1208 of the upper rear axle 1092. Each lower
hook 1200 defines an opening 1210 to an arcuate recess 1212 on a
bottom edge 1214 of the connection rail adapted to receive the
extended end portions 1216 of the lower rear axle 1110. As such,
when forces are applied to the seat back 1190 in a forward
direction (direction A in FIG. 29A), the seat back is held in
position relative to the bench seat 886 through the engagement of
the upper hooks 1198 with the rear upper axle 1092 and the
engagement of the lower hooks 1200 with the rear lower axle 1110.
Because the hooks are located on bottom and rear edges of the right
and left rails 1194, 1196, the seat back is prevented from pivoting
about the upper rear axle 1092 in the clockwise direction (as
viewed from the right side of the exercise device). As shown in
FIGS. 29A and 29B, to disconnect the seat back 1190 from the bench
seat 886, the seat back is pivoted counterclockwise (direction B in
FIG. 29A) about the upper rear axle 1092, which disengages the
upper hooks 1198 from the rear upper axle 1092. Once the upper
hooks are disengage from the rear upper axle, the seat back can be
lifted upward as shown in FIG. 29B to disengage the lower hooks
1200 from the rear lower axle 1110. It is to be appreciated that
the removable seat back can also be connected with the forward
axles 1090, 1108 on the bench seat to place a user in a forward
facing direction, such as shown in FIG. 22F.
[0310] As previously mentioned, the removable seat back 1190 can be
used while performing various exercises. However, the removable
seat back is particularly useful when performing leg press
exercises. Referring to FIG. 22E, when performing leg press
exercises, a user sits on the bench seat 886 facing toward the arm
support member 944 with his back against the removable seat back
1190. The user places his feet on the either the removable foot
plate assembly 1156 or the lower foot plate assembly 954. With the
bench seat pop-pin 1084 configured to allow the bench seat to roll
freely back and forth along the seat rail 888, the user begins
pressing against the foot plate with his legs to move the bench
seat back and forth along the seat rail against a selected
resistance.
[0311] As shown in FIGS. 26A-26B and 29A-29B, the bench seat 886
can include leg press pulleys 1218 rotatably connected with the
right and left sides 1076, 1078 of the wheel car assembly 1072 that
doubles the resistance exerted on the bench seat 886 from the
resistance system. As shown in FIG. 29C, leg press cables 1220 are
connected with resistance cables 1222 extending from arm assemblies
864. The leg press cables extend around each leg press pulley 1218
and connect with a cable adjustment mechanism 1224 connected with
the bottom rail 970. As discussed below, the cable adjustment
mechanism 1224 can be selectively locked into various positions
along the length of the bottom rail 970 to adjust the leg press
starting position. A portion of resistance cable 1222 extending
from the arm assembly 864 to the leg press pulley 1218 defines a
first cable length 1226, and a portion of resistance cable
extending from the leg press pulley 1218 to the cable adjustment
mechanism 1224 defines a second cable length 1228. In the
illustrated configuration, the leg press pulleys 1218 act as
floating pulleys coupled with the resistance system 868 through the
first and second cable lengths 1226, 1228, effectively doubling the
force exerted on the bench seat from the resistance system.
Although the exercise device is illustrated herein with leg press
cables, it is to be appreciated that other embodiments of the
exercise device do not utilize leg press cables. For example, in
other embodiments, the resistance cable is extended from the arm
assembly, around the leg press pulley, and is connected with the
cable adjustment mechanism. It should also be appreciated that the
exercise device need not include the cable adjustment mechanism,
and as such, can extend from the leg press pulley to a connection
point on the main frame.
[0312] As shown in FIG. 29C, a first end portion 1230 of the leg
press cable 1220 is releasably connected with the resistance cable
1222 extending from the assembly 864 through a snap hook 1232. It
is to be appreciated that the leg press cable 1220 can be connected
with the resistance cable in various ways and should not be limited
to that which is depicted and described herein. From the first end
portion 1230, the leg press cable 1220 extends to and is wrapped
partially around the leg press pulley 1218. From the leg press
pulley, the leg press cable 1220 extends to a second end portion
1234 connected with the cable adjustment mechanism 1224. As shown
in FIG. 29G, the cable adjustment mechanism 1224 includes a main
body 1236 having a top side 1238 and a bottom side 1239 connected
with and separating downwardly extending first and second sides
1240, 1242. Cable connection brackets 1244 extend outward from the
first and second sides of the main body. The cable connection
brackets 1244 each include an aperture 1246 to which the second end
portion 1234 of the leg press cable 1220 can be releasably
connected. It is to be appreciated that the second end portion of
the leg press cable can be connected with the apertures in the main
body in various ways. For example a hook connected with the second
end portion of the leg press cable can be used to connect the leg
press cable with the main body.
[0313] As previously mentioned, the main body 1236 of the cable
adjustment mechanism 1224 is connected with the bottom rail 970
such that the main body can move back and forth along the length of
the bottom rail 970. It is to be appreciated that, the main body
1236 can be configured to move along the bottom rail in various
ways, such as by rolling or sliding. As shown in FIG. 29G, a
spring-loaded pop-pin 1248 is supported on the top side 1238 of the
main body 1238 of the cable adjustment mechanism 1224. The pop-pin
is adapted to selectively engage apertures 1250 along a top side
1252 of the bottom rail 970. As such, cable adjustment mechanism
1224 can be selectively fixed in a desired location along the
length of the bottom rail 970. A handle 1254 pivotally connected
with the top side 1238 of the main body 1236 is connected with the
pop-pin 1248 to allow a user to selective disengage the pop-pin
from apertures 1250 in the bottom rail. More particularly, a user
can disengage the pop-pin from the bottom rail 970 by pressing
downward on an extended portion 1256 of the handle. With the
pop-pin 1248 disengaged from the bottom rail, the main body can
move in either direction along the length of the bottom rail.
[0314] As previously mentioned, the cable adjustment mechanism 1224
allows user to select a desired starting position when performing
leg press exercises. With reference to the cable configuration
shown in FIG. 29C, the closer the cable adjustment mechanism 1224
is positioned toward the first end portion 974 of the bottom rail
970, the closer the bench seat 886 must be located relative to the
foot plate assemblies 954, 1156 without causing the resistance
cables 1222 to pull on the resistance system 868. Conversely, the
closer the cable adjustment mechanism is positioned toward the
second end portion 976 of the bottom rail 970, the farther the
bench seat can be moved away from the foot plates without causing
the resistance cable to pull on the resistance system.
[0315] In one scenario, the cable adjustment mechanism 1224 shown
in FIGS. 29C and 29G is positioned relatively close to the first
end portion 974 of the bottom rail 970. As such, the first cable
length 1226 dictates how far the bench seat 886 can be moved away
from the foot plate assemblies 954, 1156 without causing the
resistance cables 1222 to pull against and activate the resistance
system 868. If a user desires a bench seat starting position
located farther from the foot plates than what is shown in FIG.
29C, the user can press down on the extended portion 1256 of the
handle 1254 on the cable adjustment mechanism 1224 to disengage the
pop-pin 1248 from the bottom rail 970. With the pop-pin disengaged
from the bottom rail, the user can move the main body 1236 of the
cable adjustment mechanism 1224 along the bottom rail 970 away from
the first end portion 974. As the main body is moved away from the
first end portion of the bottom rail, the second cable length 1228
becomes shorter and the first cable length 1226 grows longer,
allowing the bench seat 886 to move along the seat rail 888 further
away from the foot plates without causing the resistance cable to
pull against and activate the resistance system. Conversely, moving
the cable adjustment mechanism back toward the first end portion
974 of the bottom rail 970 functions to lengthen the second cable
length 1228 and shorten the first cable length 1226, which requires
the bench seat 886 to be located closer to the foot plates without
causing the resistance cables to pull against and activate the
resistance system.
[0316] As shown in FIGS. 29E-29G, cable storage housings 1258 can
be connected with the right and left sides 1076, 1078 of the bench
seat 886 outside of and adjacent to the leg press pulleys 1218.
Each cable storage housing 1258 includes a spool portion 1260
connected with a mounting plate portion 1262. The mounting plate
portion 1262 is connected with and extends downward from under the
bench seat and supports the spool portion 1260. The mounting plate
1262 also provides shield to help prevent unintended contact with
the leg press pulleys 1218, such as by a user's hands when
performing leg press exercises. When not in use, the leg press
cables 1220 can be stored on the spool portions 1260 of the cable
storage housings 1258. To store the leg press cable 1220, the user
first disconnects the first end portion 1230 of the leg press cable
1220 from the resistance cable 1222 and the second end portion 1234
of the leg press cable from the cable adjustment mechanism 1224.
The user then pulls on either end of the leg press cable until a
cable stop 1264 on either end engages with the leg press pulley.
The excess length of leg press cable extending from the leg press
pulley can then be wound around the spool portion of the cable
storage housing. The cable storage housing may also include a slot
1266 to which the free end portion of the leg press cable can
secured to prevent the leg press cable from unwinding from the
spool portion.
[0317] As previously mentioned, the exercise device 858 can also
include the leg developer assembly 1006 connected with the bench
frame 882 shown in FIGS. 22C and 30A-30F. As described above, the
leg developer assembly can be used for leg extension and leg curl
exercises. It is to be appreciated that the leg developer assembly
1006 illustrated may be used on earlier described embodiments of
the exercise device, and the leg developer assembly of earlier
embodiments may be used with the exercise device 858 of FIGS.
22A-22G. Moreover, components may be exchanged to define entirely
different leg developer attachments.
[0318] As shown in FIGS. 30A-30D, the leg developer assembly 1006
includes right and left actuation members 1268, 1270 and a
resistance arm 1272, all pivotally connected with a leg developer
axle 1274 supported between the right and left support members 984,
986 of the forward bench support 880. The actuation members 1268,
1270 are selectively connected with the resistance arm 1272 through
a leg developer pop-pin 1276. As such, the pivotal position of the
actuation members relative to the resistance arm can be selectively
adjusted to place the leg developer assembly 1006 in a desired
configuration for use. To couple the leg developer assembly 1006 to
resistance system 868, resistance cables 1222 extending from one or
both of the adjustable arm assemblies are connected with the
resistance arm 1272. As such, the resistance cables can extend from
the arm assemblies and under the two pulleys 1024 supported by the
right and left extension plates 1020, 1022 to connect with the
resistance arm 1272. With the resistance cables connected and the
leg developer assembly in the desired configuration, the user
exercises by applying forces to reciprocatingly pivot the actuation
members 1268, 1270. Because the actuation members are connected
with the resistance arm through the leg developer pop-pin 1276, the
actuation member and the resistance arm pivot together.
[0319] As previously mentioned, the resistance cables 1222 can be
connected with the leg developer assembly 1006 through the
resistance arm 1272. The resistance arm is also pivotally connected
with the leg developer axle 1274 and is selectively connected with
the actuation members 1268, 1270 through the leg developer pop-pin
1276. As shown in FIGS. 30-30D, the resistance arm 1272 includes a
pivot portion 1278 and an arm portion 1280. The pivot portion
includes an arcuate edge 1282 and an axle aperture 1284 adapted to
receive the leg developer axle 1274 to pivotally support the
resistance arm 1272. The pivot portion 1278 also includes a
plurality of circumferentially spaced apertures 1286 extending into
the arcuate edge 1282. As discussed in more detail below, the leg
developer pop-pin 1276 is adapted to engage the apertures 1286 to
provide for selective pivotal positioning of the actuation members
relative to the resistance arm. As shown in FIG. 30A, a loop hook
1288 on a rear side 1290 of a lower end portion of the resistance
arm provides a connection location for the resistance cables
1272.
[0320] As mentioned above, the actuation members 1268, 1270 is
pivotally connected with the leg developer axle 1274 and are
selectively connected with the resistance arm 1222 through the leg
developer pop-pin 1276. As shown in FIGS. 30-30D and others, upper
end portions of the actuation members 1268, 1270 are connected with
the leg developer axle 1274. The actuation members extend downward
from the leg developer axle and along opposing sides of the
resistance arm 1272. The leg developer pop-pin 1276 is supported
between the actuation members. More particularly, the leg developer
pop-pin 1276 includes a housing 1292 partially enclosing a body
1294 and a pin 1296 supported by an upper wall member 1298 and a
lower wall member 1300, both extending between the right and left
actuation members 1268, 1270. The body 1294 of the pop-pin 1276
extends through and is connected with an aperture in the upper wall
member 1298. The pin 1296 extends from and is slidingly supported
by the body 1294 and an aperture in the lower wall member 1300. A
washer 1302 adapted to engage the housing 1292 surrounding the
upper and lower wall members is connected with an end portion of
the pin 1296. The housing 1292 includes a forward portion 1304
connected with a rear portion 1306 that define channels 1308
adapted to receive the right and left leg actuation members 1268,
1270. As such, the housing can slide up and down along the
actuation members. Raised ledges on the inside of the forward and
rear portions 1304, 1306 form a collar 1310 adapted to receive the
pin 1296 at a location between the lower wall member 1300 and the
washer 1302. As shown in FIG. 30C, the leg developer pop-pin also
includes a spring 1312 operably connected with the pin 1296 to
force the pin 1296 against the arcuate edge 1282 of the resistance
arm 1272 and into the apertures 1286 located therein. As shown in
FIG. 30D, to disengage the leg developer pop-pin 1276 from the
arcuate edge 1282 of the resistance arm 1272, the housing 1292 is
slid along the actuation members 1268, 1270 in a direction away
from the leg developer axle 1274, forcing the collar 1310 to push
against the washer 1302, which in turn, moves the pin away from the
apertures in the pivot portion of the resistance arm.
[0321] As mentioned above, the pivotal position of the actuation
members 1268, 1270 relative to the resistance arm 1272 can be
adjusted to configure the leg developer assembly 1006 for various
different exercises. For example, when pivoting the actuation
members from a first pivotal position to a second pivotal position
relative to the resistance arm assembly, a user can move the
housing 1292 to disengage the pop-pin 1276 from the resistance arm
1272, as shown in FIG. 30D. While holding the pop-pin in
disengagement from the resistance arm, the actuation members 1268,
1270 can be pivoted about the leg developer axle 1274 to the second
pivotal position. As shown in FIG. 30C, once the actuation members
are in the second position, the housing 1292 can be released, which
allows the spring 1312 to force the pin 1296 back into engagement
with the resistance arm 1272. If the pin 1296 is aligned with one
of the apertures 1286 in the arcuate edge 1282 of the resistance
arm 1272, the pin will extend into one of the apertures, locking
the actuation members into the second position. If the pin 1296 is
not aligned with one of the apertures 1286, the pin will be forced
against the arcuate edge 1282 of the resistance arm 1272. The
actuation members can then be pivoted up and down until the pin is
aligned with and forced into one of the apertures. When the pop-pin
1276 is engaged with the apertures 1286 in the resistance arm 1272,
the leg actuation members and the resistance arm rotate together
about the leg developer axle 1274.
[0322] As shown in FIG. 22C and 24A, the exercise device 858 also
includes roller pads adapted to support a user's legs when
performing leg extension and leg curl exercises. In particular, the
exercise device 858 includes right and left upper roller pad
assemblies 1314, 1316 used in conjunction with the leg developer
assembly 1006. As discussed in more detail below, the upper roller
pad assemblies 1314, 1316 include upper roller pads 1318 adapted to
engage a user's legs when performing leg extension and leg curl
exercises. The upper roller pads 1318 have a substantially D-shaped
cross section defined by a substantially flat first side 1320
connected with an arcuate second side 1322. It is to be appreciated
that the roller pads are not limited to having a substantially flat
side and an arcuate side as described and depicted herein and can
include other combinations of shapes. For example, the upper roller
pads can include two arcuate sides forming an oval or an elliptical
cross section. In another scenario, the upper roller pads can
include a single curved side that forms a circular cross section.
The exercise device 858 also includes a pair of lower roller pads
1324 rotatably supported on a lower roller pad support member 1326
extending outwardly from opposing sides of the actuation members
1268, 1270 of the leg developer assembly 1006.
[0323] FIG. 30E shows the leg developer assembly 1006 configured
for leg extension exercises with the arcuate second sides 1322 of
the upper roller pads 1318 upwardly oriented. To position himself
on the exercise device 858 to perform a leg extension exercise, a
user places the back side of his knees on the second sides 1322 of
the upper roller pads and the front side of his ankles behind the
lower roller pads 1324. To configure the leg developer for leg curl
exercises, the user can disengage the leg developer pop-pin 1276 on
the leg developer assembly 1006 to allow the actuation members
1268, 1270 to pivot to an upward position, such as shown in FIG.
30F. The upper roller pads 1318 are then rotated to place the flat
first sides 1320 of the upper roller pads 1318 in an upward
orientation. To position himself on the exercise device to perform
a leg curl exercise, a user lies on the bench assembly 860 with the
front side of his legs positioned on first sides 1320 of the upper
roller pads 1318 and the rear sides of his ankles positioned under
the lower roller pads 1324. As described below, the upper roller
pad assemblies 1314, 1316 are configured to position the first and
second sides of the upper roller pads relative to the leg developer
axle 1274 to provide additional comfort to the user when performing
exercises.
[0324] As shown in FIG. 24A, the upper roller pad assemblies 1314,
1316 are rotatably supported on upper roller pad support members
1328 extending outwardly from the forward bench support 880.
Although the following description refers mainly figures showing
mainly the components of the right upper roller pad assembly, it is
to be appreciated that the left upper roller pad assembly is
substantially a mirror image of the right upper roller pad
assembly. As such, the left upper roller pad assembly includes the
same components as the right upper roller pad assembly, and
operates in relation with the frame and forward bench support as
the right upper roller pad assembly. As previously mentioned, the
upper roller pad 1318 has a D-shaped cross section defined by the
first substantially flat side 1320 and the second arcuate side
1322. The upper roller pad also includes a first end side 1330 and
a second end side 1332. A pad support member aperture 1334 and a
support rod aperture 1336 extend through the upper roller pad 1318
from the first end side 1330 to the second end side 1332. A first
pin aperture 1338 extends into the upper roller pad from the first
end side 1330, and a second pin aperture 1340 extends into upper
roller pad from the second end side 1332. As discussed in more
detail below, an inner end plate 1342 is connected adjacent to the
first end side of the roller pad, and an outer end plate 1344 is
connected adjacent the second end side of the roller pad.
[0325] As shown in FIGS. 24A, 30E, and 30F, the inner end plate
1342 includes a first side 1346 and a second side 1348 and defines
a D-shaped perimeter similar to the D-shaped cross section of the
upper roller pad 1318. As discussed in more detail below, an
aperture 1350 in the inner end plate 1342 is adapted to receive the
upper roller pad support members 1328 connected with the forward
bench support 880. A stop pin 1352 extends through the inner end
plate 1342 such that a first end portion 1354 of the stop pin 1352
extends from the first side 1346 of the inner end plate 1342, and a
second end portion 1356 of the stop pin 1352 extends from the
second side 1348 of the inner end plate 1342. As discussed in more
detail below, the first end portion 1354 of the stop pin 1352 is
adapted to engage the support members 984, 986 on the forward bench
support 880 to limit the range of pivotal movement of the upper
roller pads 1318 about the upper roller pad support members 1328.
The second end portion 1356 of the stop pin 1352 is adapted to be
received within the first pin aperture 1338 in the first end side
1330 of the upper roller pad 1318. A hollow support rod 1358 having
a first end portion 1360 connected with the second side 1348 of the
inner end plate 1342 extends outward to a second end portion 1362.
As discussed below, the support rod 1358 is adapted to be received
within the support rod aperture 1336 in the upper roller pad 1318
and the second end portion 1362 of the support rod is adapted to
connect with the outer end plate 1344.
[0326] As shown in FIG. 24A, the outer end plate 1344 includes a
first side 1364 and a second side 1366 and defines a D-shaped
perimeter similar to the D-shaped cross section of the upper roller
pad 1318. The outer end plate 1344 includes an aperture 1368 having
a side wall 1370 extending inward from the first side 1364. As
discussed below, the aperture 1368 is adapted to receive the upper
roller pad support members 1328. The outer end plate also includes
a first pin 1372 extending from the first side 1364 that is adapted
to be received within the second end portion 1362 of the support
rod 1358 extending from the second side 1348 of the inner end plate
1342. In addition, a second pin 1374 extends from the first side
1364 of the outer end plate 1344 and is adapted to be received
within the second pin aperture 1340 in the second end side 1332 of
the upper roller pad 1318.
[0327] As previously mentioned, the upper roller pad 1318 is
rotatably supported on the upper roller pad support member 1328
extending from the right support member 984 on the forward bench
support 880. More particularly, the upper roller pad support member
extends through the aperture 1350 in the inner end plate, the pad
support member aperture 1334 in the upper roller pad 1318, and the
aperture 1368 in the outer end plate 1344. As shown in FIG. 24A, an
end cap 1378 is connected with the end of the upper roller pad
support member 1328 to help maintain the relative axial positions
of the component parts of the right upper roller pad assembly. The
second end portion 1356 of the stop pin 1352 on the inner end plate
1342 is received within the first pin aperture 1338 of the first
end side 1330 of the upper roller pad 1318, and second pin 1374 on
outer end plate 1344 is received within the second pin aperture
1340 on the second end side 1332 of the upper roller pad. As
previously mentioned, the support rod 1358 extends from the inner
end plate 1342 and through the support rod aperture 1336 in the
upper roller pad 1318. As such, the first pin 1372 on the outer end
plate 1344 is received within the second end portion 1362 of the
hollow support rod 1358. Therefore, the inner end plate, the outer
end plate, and the upper roller pad rotate together about the upper
roller pad support member. The first end portion 1354 of the stop
pin 1352 engages the support members 984, 986 on the forward bench
support 880 to limit the range of pivotal movement of the upper
roller pad 1318 about the upper roller pad support member.
[0328] As previously mentioned, the right and left upper roller pad
assemblies 1314, 1316 can be used in conjunction with the leg
developer assembly 1006 when performing leg extension and leg curl
exercises. As shown in FIG. 30E, when configuring the exercise
device 858 to perform leg extension exercises, the upper roller pad
assemblies 1314, 1316 are rotated about the upper roller pad
support members 1328 so the arcuate second sides 1322 of the upper
roller pads 1318 are upwardly oriented. As previously described,
the user positions himself on the exercise device with the back
side of his knees on the arcuate second sides of the upper roller
pads and the front side of his ankles behind the lower roller pads
1324. As shown in particular in FIG. 30E, the distance D between
the arcuate second side 1322 of the upper roller pads 1318 and the
leg developer axle 1374 is such that the user's knee joints are
substantially aligned with the leg developer axle, which provides
additional comfort to the user when performing leg extension
exercises.
[0329] As shown in FIG. 30F, when configuring the exercise device
to perform leg curl exercises, the upper roller pad assemblies
1314, 1316 are rotated about the upper roller pad support members
1328 so the flat first sides 1320 of the upper roller pads 1318 are
upwardly oriented. As previously described, the user lies on the
bench assembly 860 with the front side of his legs positioned on
the flat first sides 1320 of the upper roller pads and the rear
sides of his ankles positioned under the lower roller pads 1324. As
shown in particular in FIG. 30F the distance D' between the flat
first sides 1320 of the upper roller pads 1318 and the leg
developer axle 1374 is located substantially behind the user's knee
joints, which provides additional comfort to the user when
performing leg curl exercises.
[0330] As described and depicted herein, the various exercise
device embodiments include right and left arm assemblies adjustably
coupled with the frame. The arm assemblies 894, 896 of the exercise
device 858 of FIGS. 22A-22G differs in many respects from earlier
described embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 31A-31F, the right and
left arm assemblies each include an arm member 1380 having a distal
end portion 1382 and a proximal end portion 1384. A distal pulley
housing 1386 is rotatably connected with the distal end portion
1382 of the arm member 1380. The distal pulley housing 1386
rotatably supports a first pulley 1388. The distal pulley housing
can also rotate relative the arm member 1380 to help align the
resistance cable 1222 extending through the arm member. A second
pulley 1390 is rotatably connected with and partially enclosed by
the proximal end portion 1384 of the arm member 1380. As discussed
in more detail below, the proximal end portion 1384 of the arm
member 1380 is pivotally connected with the arm support member 944.
In addition, each arm assembly includes a spring-loaded arm pop-pin
1392 that allows a user to selectively position the arm assembly,
from a substantially downward vertical position, through a
plurality of positions in approximately a 180.degree. arc, and in a
substantially upward vertical position. More particularly, the arm
pop-pin 1392 is operable to allow the arm assembly to pivot about a
pivot axis 1394 defined by the pivotal connection of the proximal
end portion 1384 of the arm member 1380 with the frame 862.
[0331] As previously mentioned, the arm assemblies 894, 896 are
pivotally connected with the arm support member 944. As shown in
FIGS. 31A-31F, a first plate 1396 and a second plate 1398 are
connected with and extend upward from an upper end portion of the
arm support member 944. The first and second plates are also
connected with and separated by a support member 1400 extending
upward from the upper end portion of the arm support member 944.
Journals 1402 extending from the inside of the proximal end
portions 1384 of the arm members 1380 are pivotally connected with
cylindrically-shaped bearing members 1404 on first and second
plates 1396, 1398. The bearing members 1404 on the first and second
plates are collinear with and define pivot axes 1406 for each arm
assembly. The second pulleys 1390 associated with each arm assembly
894, 896 are rotatably connected with second pulley axles 1408
supported by and extending between the first and second plates.
[0332] As shown in FIGS. 31A-31F, the first plate includes a
plurality of apertures 1410 that are circumferentially spaced along
right and left arcuate edges 1412, 1414 of the first plate 1396. As
discussed in more detail below, the arm pop-pins 1392 supported on
the proximal end portions 1384 of the right and left arm assemblies
894, 896 are adapted to engage the apertures 1410 on the first
plate 1396 to selectively lock the arm assemblies in various
pivotal positions. Pop-pin levers 1416 on each arm assembly 894,
896 are used to disengage the arm pop-pins 1392 from apertures 1410
on the first plate 1396 to allow the arm assemblies to pivot. More
particularly, each pop-pin lever 1416 is pivotally supported by a
lever axle 1418 on the arm member and includes a handle portion
1420 angularly offset from a base portion 1422. The base portion
1422 of the pop-pin lever 1416 is adapted engage a T-bar 1424
connected with the arm pop-pin 1392.
[0333] The arm pop-pins 1392 are spring-loaded and are biased into
engagement with first plate 1396. As such, the spring-loaded
feature of the arm pop-pin forces the T-bar 1424 against the base
portion 1422 of the pop-pin lever 1416, which in turn holds the
base portion against the outer surface of the arm member 1380.
Because the base portion 1422 is angularly offset from the handle
portion 1420, when the base portion is pressed against the outer
surface of the arm member 1380 by the arm pop-pin, the handle
portion extends away from the outer surface of the arm member. When
the handle portion 1420 is moved toward the outer surface of the
arm member 1380, the pop-pin lever 1416 pivots around the lever
axle 1418 and the base portion 1422 is lifted away from the outer
surface of the arm member. As the base portion moves away from the
arm member, the base portion pulls the T-bar 1424 in the same
direction, causing the arm pop-pin 1392 to disengage the first
plate apertures 1410. When the handle portion 1420 is released, the
spring-loaded feature of the arm pop-pin 1392 acts to pull the base
portion 1422 through the T-bar 1424 back toward the outer surface
of the arm member 1380. Although the arm pop-pins are shown in
various figures as located on the front sides of the arm
assemblies, it is to be appreciated that the arm pop-pins can be
located in other locations on the arm assemblies. For example, the
arm pop-pins 1392 are shown in FIG. 25A as located on the rear
sides of the arm assemblies 894, 896. Because the arm pop-pins are
located on the rear sides of the arm assemblies, the first plate
1396 is located rearward of the second plate 1398.
[0334] When the arm pop-pins 1392 are disengaged from the apertures
1410 on the first plate 1396, the arm assemblies 894, 896 are free
to pivot around the pivot axes 1406. Depending upon the weight of
the arm assemblies, it may be relatively difficult for a user to
lift and pivot the arm assemblies upward to a desired position. As
shown in FIG. 31C, embodiments of the present invention can include
gas springs 1426 with opposing end portions pivotally connected
with the arm assemblies 894, 896 and the arm support member 944.
The gas springs 1426 act to reduce the effects of the weight of the
arm assemblies when the arm pop-pins 1392 are disengaged from the
first plate 1396. More particularly, the gas springs 1426 are
adapted to exert forces on the arm assemblies to mitigate the
gravitational forces exerted arm assemblies. It is to be
appreciated that the gas springs can be configured to provide
different levels of force on the arm assemblies. For example, the
gas springs can be configured to the exert forces on the arm
assemblies that will cause the arm assemblies to pivot relatively
slowly in a downward direction when the arm pop-pins are disengaged
from the first plate. In another example, the gas springs can be
configured to the exert forces on the arm assemblies that will
cause the arm assemblies to pivot upward when the arm pop-pins are
disengaged from the first plate. In yet another example, the gas
springs are configured to exert forces on the arm assemblies that
will hold the arm assemblies in position when the arm pop-pins are
disengaged from the rear plate until such time when the user
applies a small amount of force to the arm assemblies causing them
to pivot up or down around the pivot axes.
[0335] As previously mentioned, the user actuates the resistance
system 868 through the cable-pulley system 866. The cable-pulley
system 866 on the embodiment of the exercise device 858 shown in
FIGS. 32A and 32B includes separate right and left cable-pulley
systems 898, 900 that connect the right and left resistance systems
870, 872 with the right and left arm assemblies 894, 896. Although
the following description may refer to figures illustrating mainly
the components of the right cable-pulley system 898, it is to be
appreciated that the left cable-pulley system 900 is substantially
a mirror image of the right cable-pulley system, and as such,
includes the same components as the right cable-pulley system,
which operate in relation with each other and with the frame as the
right cable-pulley system. FIGS. 32A and 32B illustrate the cable
routing from the right and left arm assemblies 894, 896 to the
right and left resistance systems 870, 872. From a first end 1428,
the resistance cable 1222 extends through a cable stop 1430 engaged
with the first pulley 1388 in the distal pulley housing 1386 and
through the inside of the arm member 1380 to the second pulley
1390. The cable stop 1380 is connected with the resistance cable
1222 and prevents the resistance cable from retracting into the arm
member. The resistance cable 1222 exits the proximal end portion
1384 of the arm member 1380 and wraps around a portion of the
second pulley 1390 and extends downward through the arm support
member 944 to a lower directional pulley 1432. From the lower
direction pulley 1432, the resistance cable 1222 extends to a
second end connected with the transmission assembly 902 of the
resistance system 868.
[0336] As previously mentioned, the right and left resistance
systems 870, 872 each include transmission assemblies 902 and
resistance assemblies 904. As shown in FIGS. 23A, 23B, 32A, and
32B, the transmission assembly includes a transmission pulley 1436
and a belt pulley 1438 rotatably connected with a transmission axle
1440. The transmission axle is connected with the transmission
support member 950 on the main frame 862. The transmission pulley
is connected with the belt pulley, and as such, rotate together. As
previously mentioned, the second end of the resistance cable 1222
is connected with the transmission pulley 1436. The transmission
assembly is connected with the resistance assembly through a
resistance belt 1442. As shown in FIG. 32C, a first end 1444 of the
resistance belt 1442 is connected with the belt pulley 1438. A
second end 1446 of the resistance belt 1442 is connected with a
linearizing cam 1448 on the resistance assembly 904. As discussed
in more detail below, forces exerted on the resistance cable 1222,
such as during exercise, can cause the transmission pulley 1436 to
rotate. As such, when the transmission pulley 1436 rotates in a
direction that pulls on the resistance belt 1442, the linearizing
cam 1448 imparts torsional forces to the resistance packs 874 on
the resistance assembly 904.
[0337] It is to be appreciated that although the exercise device
858 of FIGS. 22A-22G of the present invention is depicted and
described herein with a belt pulley, other configurations of the
exercise device utilize a cam in place of the belt pulley to
provide a different force curve, as described above with reference
to earlier embodiments. Further, configurations of the exercise
device 858 utilize multiple cams and a cam selector mechanism as
described above with reference to the earlier embodiments.
[0338] The transmission assembly 902 can also include the
previously mentioned tensioning mechanism 878 that allows a user to
adjust the tension of the resistance belt 1442. More particularly,
the tensioning mechanism 878 allows the user to decouple the belt
pulley 1438 from the transmission pulley 1436 and rotate the belt
pulley relative to the transmission pulley to adjust the tension of
the resistance belt between the belt pulley and the linearizing cam
1448. As discussed in more detail below with reference to FIGS.
33A-33E, the tension mechanism 878 includes a spring-loaded locking
member 1450 to selectively connect and disconnect the belt pulley
1438 with the transmission pulley 1436. A knob connected with the
locking member allows a user to move the locking member 1452 in a
first direction to disconnect the belt pulley from the transmission
pulley, which allows the belt pulley to rotate independently from
the transmission pulley and adjust the tension in the resistance
belt. Once the belt tension has been adjusted, a user can move the
knob in an opposite second direction to reconnect the belt pulley
with the transmission pulley. The tension mechanism also includes a
compression spring 1454 to hold the locking member in a position to
maintain the connection between the belt pulley and the
transmission pulley.
[0339] As previously mentioned, the knob 1452 connected with the
locking member is used to move the locking member 1452 to
selectively connect and disconnect the belt pulley 1438 with the
transmission pulley 1436. As shown in FIGS. 33A-33E, the locking
member 1450 includes a disc-shaped base portion 1456 having a first
side 1458 and an opposing second side 1460. Four posts 1462 are
connected with and extend from the first side 1458. As discussed in
more detail below, the four posts 1462 are slidingly received
within the belt pulley and are connected with the knob. A plurality
of studs 1464 extend from the second side 1460 of the base portion
of the locking member. As discussed in more detail below, the studs
1464 are adapted to engage a plurality of correspondingly spaced
apertures 1466 in an inner radial portion 1468 of the transmission
pulley 1436. The base portion 1456 of the locking member 1450
further includes an axle aperture 1470 adapted to receive the
transmission axle 1440. When the studs 1464 are engaged with the
apertures 1470, the belt pulley and the transmission pulley rotate
together. Alternatively, the studs are withdrawn from the
apertures, the belt pulley and the transmission pulley can rotate
independent of each other. A longitudinally extending wall along
the outer circumference of the axle aperture 1470 defines a
circular ledge portion 1472 on the second side 1460 of the locking
member 1450. As discussed in more detail below, the ledge portion
1472 is adapted to receive a first end 1474 of the compression
spring 1454, which acts to hold the studs in engagement with the
apertures.
[0340] As shown in FIGS. 33A-33E, the belt pulley 1438 has a
spool-shaped cross section defined by raised first end portion 1476
and a second end portion 1478 separated by a recessed middle
portion 1480. The middle portion 1480 defines a flat outer surface
1482 along its length upon which the resistance belt 1442 is
wrapped. A pulley aperture 1484 having a varying diameter extends
through the center of the belt pulley 1438. A first diameter of the
pulley aperture 1484 defines a first inner cylindrical surface 1486
extending inward from a first end surface 1488 of the belt pulley
1438. Four raised convex surfaces 1490 extend along the length of
the first inner cylindrical surface 1486. As discussed in more
detail below, four corresponding arcuate recesses 1492 in the outer
circumference of the base portion 1456 of the locking member 1450
are adapted to slidingly receive the four raised convex surfaces
1490. A second diameter defines a second inner cylindrical surface
1494 extends from the first inner cylindrical surface 1486. The
second diameter is smaller than the first diameter, which defines a
first ring surface 1496 located at the transition from the first
inner cylindrical surface 1486 to the second inner cylindrical
surface 1494. A longitudinally extending wall 1498 on the inner
diameter of the first ring surface 1496 defines a circular ledge
portion 1500 adapted to be received within a second end 1502 of the
compression spring 1454, discussed in more detail below. A third
diameter defines a third inner cylindrical surface 1504 extending
from the second inner cylindrical surface 1494. The third diameter
is larger than the second diameter, defining a second ring surface
1506 at the transition from the second inner cylindrical surface
1494 to the third inner cylindrical surface 1504. A fourth diameter
defines a fourth inner cylindrical surface 1508 extending from the
third inner cylindrical surface 1504 to a second end surface 1510.
The fourth diameter is larger than the third diameter, defining a
third ring surface 1512 at the transition from the third inner
cylindrical surface 1504 to the fourth inner cylindrical surface
1508.
[0341] As shown in FIGS. 33A-33E, the locking member 1450 is
connected with the belt pulley 1438 by inserting the four posts
1462 extending from the base portion 1456 through four post
apertures 1514 extending from the first ring surface 1496 to the
third ring surface 1512. The compression spring 1454 is positioned
between the second side 1460 of the base portion 1456 of the
locking member 1450 and first ring surface 1496 on the belt pulley
1438. As previously mentioned, the first end 1474 of the
compression spring receives the ledge 1472 on the second side 1460
of the locking member 1450, and the second end 1502 of the
compression spring receives the ledge 1500 on the first ring
surface 1496 in the belt pulley. The four posts 1462 are inserted
into the four post apertures 1514 until the base portion 1456 of
the locking member 1450 is received within the belt pulley 1438.
More particularly, an outer circumferential edge 1516 of the base
portion 1456 is adjacent to the first inner cylindrical surface
1486 of the belt pulley 1438 with the four raised convex surfaces
1490 extending through the four arcuate recesses 1492. The
engagement between the raised convex surfaces and the arcuate
recesses in combination with the posts and post apertures connects
the belt pulley with the locking member such that both rotate
together while at the same time allowing the locking member to
slide longitudinally with respect to the belt pulley. Compression
of the compression spring 1454 between the locking member 1450 and
the belt pulley 1438 forces the base portion 1456 of the locking
member 1450 away from the belt pulley 1438 and toward the
transmission pulley 1436.
[0342] As shown in FIGS. 33A-33E, the transmission pulley 1436 and
the belt pulley 1438 are rotatably mounted on the transmission axle
1440. A first bearing 1517 rotatably supports the transmission
pulley on the transmission axle. A bearing second bearing 1518
adapted to be received within the belt pulley 1438 adjacent the
third inner cylindrical surface 1504 is connected with an end of
the transmission axle through an axle screw 1520 and washer 1522
threaded into the end of the transmission axle. As such, the second
bearing 1518 presses against the second ring surface 1506 of the
belt pulley 1438 to maintain the axial positions of the belt pulley
and the transmission pulley on the transmission axle. The knob 1452
includes four post apertures 1524 adapted to receive end portions
of the four posts 1462 extending through the post apertures 1514
and the third ring surface 1512 of the belt pulley 1438. Four knob
screws 1526 inserted into the knob post apertures. 1524 are screwed
into the end portions of the four posts 1462. Radially extending
screw heads on the knob screws are adapted to engage internal
ledges on the inner walls of the knob post apertures. A cap 1528 is
also connected with the knob 1526 with a cap screw 1530.
[0343] As shown in FIG. 33D, to disengage the belt pulley 1438 from
the transmission pulley 1436, the knob 1452 is moved in a direction
away from the transmission pulley, which disengages the studs 1464
on the locking member 1450 from the corresponding apertures 1466 on
the transmission pulley 1436. The tension of the resistance belt
1442 can be adjusted by turning the knob 1452 and belt pulley 1438
in a desired direction. Once the resistance belt is adjusted, the
knob 1452 is pushed toward the transmission pulley 1436 as shown in
FIG. 33E to reengage the studs 1464 on the locking member 1450 with
the apertures 1466 on the transmission pulley 1436. The compression
spring 1454 presses against the locking member and the belt pulley
to maintain the engagement of the studs within the corresponding
apertures.
[0344] As previously mentioned, the resistance belt 1442 connects
the transmission assembly 902 with the resistance assembly 904. As
shown in FIG. 32C, the first end 1444 of the resistance belt 1442
is connected with the belt pulley 1438. From the belt pulley, the
resistance belt extends upward and is partially wrapped onto the
linearizing cam 1448 on the resistance assembly 904. The second end
1446 of the resistance belt 1442 is also connected with the
linearizing cam. Unlike earlier embodiments of the exercise device,
the resistance assembly 904 on the exercise device 858 does not
include a selector mechanism connected to selectively connect
various numbers of resistance packs with the linearizing cam.
Instead, the level of resistance is adjusted by placing a desired
number of resistance packs 874 on the resistance axle 906, as shown
in FIG. 22A. As discussed in more detail below with reference to
FIGS. 34A-34D, the resistance packs 874 have housings 1532 that can
be connected with each other and with the linearizing cam 1448. As
such, to set the level of resistance on the exercise device 858, a
desired number of resistance packs are placed on the resistance
axle and are interconnected with one another and with the
linearizing cam. Forces applied to the resistance cable 1222, such
as during exercise, are translated to the resistance belt 1442
through the transmission assembly 902. More particularly, the
transmission pulley 1436 and the belt pulley 1438 rotate to unwind
the resistance belt 1442 from the linearizing cam 1448, causing the
linearizing cam and the housings of the interconnected resistance
packs to rotate.
[0345] The resistance packs 874 on the exercise device 858 are
similar to the resistance packs described above with reference to
earlier embodiments. However, instead of having a pair of
resistance elements, the housing 1532 of the resistance pack 874 in
FIGS. 34A-34D encloses a single resistance element 1534 that acts
as a torsional spring. It is to be appreciated, however, that other
embodiments of the resistance packs 874 can be configured to house
more than one resistance element. In turn, the resistance element
1534 is connected with a center hub 1536, which is selectively
connected with the resistance axle 906. The housing 1532 includes
disc-shaped first and second sides 1538, 1540 with a circular rim
extending 1542 along the circular periphery of each side. As shown
in FIG. 34C, a plurality of rigid triangular frames 1544 extend
outward from an inner surface 1546 of the first side 1538. Although
the resistance pack 874 is illustrated with eight triangular
frames, it is to be appreciated that the resistance pack can have
more or less than eight triangular frames.
[0346] As described above with reference to other embodiments, the
resistance element 1534 shown in FIGS. 34C and 34D acts as a
torsional spring and may be constructed of a suitable elastomeric
substance exhibiting resiliency and resistance to stretching. The
resistance element 1534 includes a plurality of spokes 1548
connected with and extending radially outward from the center hub
1536. The resistance element 1534 is installed in the housing 1532
with the spokes extending between the adjacent triangular frames
1544. The resistance element also includes a plurality of
peripheral portions 1550 extending between outer ends of the spokes
1548. As with previously described resistance packs, the center hub
1536 may be constructed of a rigid material which may be glued or
otherwise bonded to the elastomeric inner ends of the spokes. The
center hub 1536 shown in FIGS. 34A-34D is provided with a generally
hexagonally-shaped inner surface 1546 adapted to receive the
resistance axle 906 having a correspondingly shaped cross section.
More particularly, the inner surface of the hub defines five flat
sides 1554 and one curved side 1556. The cross section of the
resistance axle 906 is similarly shaped with five flat sides 1558
and one curved side 1560, as shown in FIG. 35B. The correspondingly
shaped sides of the center hub 1536 and resistance axle 906 act as
a key that allows the resistance pack to be placed on the
resistance axle in a particular angular orientation. As such, the
center hub 1536 is configured to receive the resistance axle such
that the center hub can slide along the length of the resistance
axle, but does not rotate relative to the resistance axle. When the
housing 1532 of the resistance pack 874 containing the resistance
element 1534 is rotated relative to the center hub 1536, the spokes
1548 and the peripheral portions 1550 of the resistance element are
stretched. As describe above with reference to the other
embodiments, the resilient construction of the resistance element
resists stretching to provide a resistive force that opposes the
stretching of the arms and peripheral portions. It is to
appreciated that the resistive forces increases the more the
resistance elements are stretched. In other words, the more the
housing of the resistance pack is rotated relative to the hub, the
greater the resistance force. It is also to be appreciated that the
resistance packs can be configured with resistance elements having
different shapes and sizes, which can produce different levels of
resistance for the same amount of housing rotation relative to the
resistance axle. For example, FIGS. 34E-34G illustrate three
resistance elements 1534', 1534'', and 1534''' having three
different widths, W', W'', and W''', respectively. Provided the
three resistance elements of FIGS. 34E-34G are constructed from
material having the same elastomeric properties, the resistance
elements with the progressively larger widths provide greater
levels of resistance.
[0347] As previously mentioned, the resistance packs 874 are
configured to selectively connect with each other. More
particularly, hooks 1562 on an outside surface 1564 of the first
side 1538 of one resistance pack is adapted to connect with
corresponding hooks 1562 on an outside surface 1566 of the second
side 1540 of another resistance pack. As shown in FIGS. 34A-34B,
partial rings 1568 on each side of the resistance packs 874 are
defined by circumferentially extending raised surfaces 1570 located
at various radial distances from the center hub 1536. The
intersection of a first end portion 1572 of the each partial ring
with the outer surfaces 1564, 1566 of each side 1538, 1540 defines
a sloped portion 1574 of the partial ring. Extending from the
sloped portion 1574, a middle portion 1576 of the partial ring
defines a generally flat raised portion 1578. From the middle
portion 1578, the partial ring 1568 extends to a second end portion
1580 defining the hooks 1562. As previously mentioned, the hooks
1562 on the first side 1538 of one resistance pack are adapted to
connect with corresponding hooks 1562 on the second side 1540 of
another resistance pack. In particular embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 34A-34B, the first side and second sides of the resistance
pack each include a first partial ring 1582 having a first hook
1584 located at a first radial distance from the center hub 1536. A
pair of second partial rings 1586 and a pair of second hooks 1588
are located at a second radial distance from the center hub 1536. A
third partial ring 1590 and a third hook 1592 is located at a third
radial distance from the center hub 1536. A pair of fourth partial
rings 1594 and a pair of fourth hooks 1596 are located at a fourth
radial distance from the center hub 1536. It is to be appreciated
that the resistance packs are limited to the interconnection
configurations depicted and described herein.
[0348] As shown in FIGS. 22A, 35A, 35B, and 35C, the resistance
axle 906 extends outward from right and left sides of the
resistance support member 952 to support the resistance assemblies
904 of the right and left resistance systems 870, 872. As shown in
FIGS. 35B and 35C, the resistance axle 906 is connected with the
resistance support member 952 through a clam shell clamp 1640. The
clam shell clamp 1640 includes a bottom side 1642 connected with
the resistance support member 952 between right and left
linearizing cam bearings 1644. Eight bolts 1646 connect a top side
1648 of the clam shell clamp 1640 with the bottom side 1642. When
installed on the exercise device, the resistance axle 906 extends
through linearizing cam bearings 1644 and between the top and
bottom sides 1648, 1642 of the clam shell clamp 1640. The eight
bolts 1646 are tightened to provide clamping forces between the top
and bottom sides on the resistance axle 906. As shown in FIG. 35C,
the top and bottom sides 1648, 1642 of the clam shell clamp 1640
are correspondingly formed with the cross sectional shape of the
resistance axle 906. The clamping forces exerted on the resistance
axle by the clam shell clamp in conjunction with the corresponding
shapes of the top and bottom sides of clam shell act to hold the
resistance axle in a fixed position and to resist torsional forces
exerted on the resistance axle by the resistance packs 874.
[0349] As shown in FIGS. 35B and 35C, the exercise device can also
include a bolt 1650 retainer that allows the exercise device to be
shipped with the top side 1648 of the clam shell clamp 1640 loosely
bolted to the bottom side 1642. As such, the resistance axle 906
can be easily installed once the exercise device reaches a shipping
destination. For example, in one embodiment, with the top side 1648
of the clam shell clamp 1640 loosely bolted to the bottom side
1642, the resistance axle 906 can be slid with the curved side 1560
facing upward between the two sides of the clam shell clamp. The
axial position of the resistance axle 906 can be fixed by sliding
the resistance axle through the clam shell clamp until a boss 1652
extending downward from the top side 1648 of the clam shell clamp
1640 engages a divot 1654 in the curved top side 1560 of the
resistance axle 906. Once the resistance axle is in position, the
bolts 1646 can be tightened. The sequence in which the bolts 1646
are tightened can cause the clam shell clamp 1640 to exert
additional compressive forces on opposing sides of the resistance
axle 906 to further resist rotational forces exerted thereon by the
resistance packs. For example, in one embodiment, a user can extend
a wrench through apertures 1656 in the bolt retainer to first
tighten the bolts labeled 1646-1 in FIG. 35B. The bolts labeled
1646-2 are tightened next, followed by the bolts labeled 1646-3,
and followed by the bolts labeled 1646-4.
[0350] As shown in FIGS. 22A, 35A, 35B, the linearizing cam 1448 is
rotatably mounted the linearizing cam bearings 1644 around the
resistance axle 906 above the transmission assembly 902 such that
the resistance belt 1442 extends upward from the belt pulley to
wrap around the outer surface of the linearizing cam 1448. A first
side 1598 of the linearizing cam 1448 is located adjacent the
resistance support member 952. A raised surface 1600 on the first
side 1598 of the linearizing cam 1448 defines a stop ledge 1602
adapted to engage the resistance support member 952. A first
resistance pack 1606 is bolted to a second side 1608 of the
linearizing cam. The first resistance pack includes a housing 1610
partially enclosing a resistance element 1612 connected with a
center hub 1614. The housing 1610, resistance element 1612, and
center hub 1614 of the first resistance pack 1606 are operably
connected to resist rotation of the housing 1610 with respect to
the resistance axle 906 in substantially the manner as described
above with reference to the resistance pack 874 shown in FIGS.
34A-34D. Before connecting the first resistance pack 1606 with the
linearizing cam 1448, the housing 1610 of the first resistance pack
1606 is slightly rotated to stretch the resistance element 1612,
which results in a pre-load. As such, pre-load exerted by the first
resistance pack forces the stop ledge 1602 on the linearizing cam
1448 to abut the resistance support member 952 to the maintain the
linearizing cam in a constant initial starting position when not in
use. As discussed in more detail below with reference to FIG. 22A
and others, an outer side 1616 of the housing 1610 of the first
resistance pack 1606 can be configured with the same hooked
connection structure as described above with reference to the
second side 1540 of the resistance pack 874. As such, the first
sides 1538 of resistance packs 874 can be connected with the outer
side 1616 of the first resistance pack 1606 to selectively adjust
the resistance of the exercise device.
[0351] Referring to FIGS. 22A, 34A-34D, and 35A-35B, when placing a
resistance pack 874 on the resistance axle 906, the curved inner
side 1556 on the center hub 1536 of the resistance pack 874 is
first aligned with the curved side 1560 on the resistance axle 906.
The resistance pack 874 can then be slid along the length of the
resistance axle until the first side 1538 of the resistance pack
874 abuts the outer side 1616 of the first resistance pack 1606
connected with the linearizing cam 1448. To connect the resistance
pack 874 with the first resistance pack 1606, the housing 1532 of
the resistance pack 874 is rotated relative to the first resistance
pack 1606 to bring the hooks 1562 on the outer side 1616 of the
first resistance pack into engagement with corresponding hooks 1562
on the first side 1538 of the resistance pack 874. In one
embodiment, when connecting a resistance pack on the resistance
axle 906 for the right resistance system 870, the resistance pack
is rotated 10-15 degrees counterclockwise (as viewed from the right
side of the exercise device) to bring the hooks 1562 on the first
side 1538 into engagement with the hooks 1562 on the outer side
1616 of the first resistance pack 1606. The slight rotation in the
counterclockwise direction stretches the resistance element in the
resistance pack, which results in additional pre-loads that
maintain engagement of the hooks between the resistance packs.
Additional resistance packs can be placed on the resistance axle
connected with adjacent resistance packs in the manner described
above.
[0352] As previously described, the level of resistance on the
exercise device is can be adjusted by varying the number of
interconnected resistance packs 874 on the resistance axle 906,
which in turn are connected with the linearizing cam 1448. When
tension is placed on the resistance belt 1442 that causes the
linearizing cam 1448 to rotate around the resistance axle 906, the
housings 1532, 1610 of the interconnected resistance packs 874,
1606 on the resistance axle 906 rotate along with the linearizing
cam 1448. Due to the resilient construction of the resistance
elements inside the resistance packs, the resistance force exerted
by each resistance pack progressively increases as the linearizing
cam rotates. As such, an outer circumferential surface 1618 of the
linearizing cam 1448 can be shaped to offset the progressive
increase in forces exerted by the resistance packs 874,1606. More
particularly, as the resistance belt 1442 unwinds from linearizing
cam 1448, a radial distance R1 from a center longitudinal axis 1620
of the resistance axle 906 to a location where the resistance belt
separates from the outer surface of the linearizing cam increases.
In other words, a first force exerted on the resistance belt 1442
that causes the linearizing cam 1448 to rotate will result in a
progressively increasing torque exerted on the linearizing cam as
the linearizing cam rotates around the resistance axle 906. As
such, although the resistance packs provide a progressively
increasing resistance torque as the housings are rotated relative
the resistance axle, the progressively increasing torque exerted by
the resistance belt on the linearizing cam results in a
substantially linear resistance force exerted on the resistance
belt. It is to be appreciated that linearizing cams having
different outer shapes can be used with the present invention and
as such, should not be limited to the shape of the linearizing cam
described and depicted herein.
[0353] A description of the operation of the components associated
with the cable-pulley system and resistance system located on the
right and left sides of the exercise device is provided below.
Descriptions of rotational directions (i.e. clockwise and
counterclockwise) are from a point of reference as viewed from the
right side of the exercise device.
[0354] When using right side of the exercise device 858, the user
applies a force to the resistance cable 1222, pulling the first end
1428 of the resistance cable from the distal end portion 1382 of
the right arm assembly 894. The movement of the resistance cable
1222 is guided by the first pulley 1388, second pulley 1390, and
lower direction pulley 1432 of the right cable-pulley assembly 898.
Because the second end 1434 of the resistance cable 1222 is
terminated in the transmission pulley 1436, pulling the first end
1428 of the first resistance cable 1222 from the right arm assembly
causes the transmission pulley 1436 of the right resistance system
870 to rotate counterclockwise. Rotation of the transmission pulley
in the counterclockwise direction causes the belt pulley 1438 to
rotate in the counterclockwise direction. As such, the resistance
belt 1442 winds onto the belt pulley 1438. As the resistance belt
winds onto the belt pulley, the resistance belt unwinds from the
linearizing cam 1448 of the right resistance system 870, which
causes the linearizing cam to rotate counterclockwise around the
resistance axle 906. The housing 1610 of first resistance pack 1606
rotates with the linearizing cam 1448 along with the housings 1532
of any additional resistance packs 874 that have been
interconnected with first resistance pack. As such, the resistance
packs provide a resistance force to the resistance belt as the
linearizing cam rotates counterclockwise.
[0355] When the user releases the resistance cable 1222, the
resistance elements 1534, 1612 of the resistance packs 874,1606 of
the right resistance system 870 force the housings 1532, 1610 of
the resistance packs to rotate around the resistance axle 906 along
with the linearizing cam in the clockwise direction. Rotation of
the linearizing cam in the clockwise direction unwinds the
resistance belt 1442 from the belt pulley 1438, causing the belt
pulley and transmission pulley 1436 to rotate clockwise. Rotation
of the transmission pulley 1436 in the clockwise direction winds
the resistance cable back onto the transmission pulley, which pulls
the resistance cable 1222 to retract back into the right arm
assembly 894.
[0356] When using left side of the exercise device 858, the user
applies a force to the resistance cable 1222, pulling the first end
1428 of the resistance cable from the distal end portion 1382 of
the left arm assembly 896. The movement of the resistance cable
1222 is guided by the first pulley 1388, second pulley 1434, and
lower direction pulley 1432 of the left cable-pulley assembly 900.
Because the second end 1434 of the resistance cable 1222 is
terminated in the transmission pulley 1436, pulling the first end
1428 of the first resistance cable 1222 from the left arm assembly
causes the transmission pulley 1436 of the left resistance system
870 to rotate clockwise. Rotation of the transmission pulley in the
clockwise direction causes the belt pulley 1438 to rotate in the
clockwise direction. As such, the resistance belt 1442 winds onto
the belt pulley 1438. As the resistance belt winds onto the belt
pulley, the resistance belt unwinds from the linearizing cam 1448
of the left resistance system 872, which causes the linearizing cam
to rotate clockwise around the resistance axle 906. The housing
1610 of first resistance pack 1606 rotates with the linearizing cam
1448 along with the housings 1532 of any additional resistance
packs 874 that have been interconnected with first resistance pack.
As such, the resistance packs provide a resistance force to the
resistance belt as the linearizing cam rotates clockwise.
[0357] When the user releases the resistance cable 1222, the
resistance elements 1534, 1612 of the resistance packs 874, 1606 of
the left resistance system 872 force the housings 1532, 1610 of the
resistance packs to rotate around the resistance axle 906 along
with the linearizing cam in the counterclockwise direction.
Rotation of the linearizing cam in the counterclockwise direction
unwinds the resistance belt 1442 from the belt pulley 1438, causing
the belt pulley and transmission pulley 1436 to rotate
counterclockwise. Rotation of the transmission pulley 1436 in the
counterclockwise direction winds the resistance cable back onto the
transmission pulley, which pulls the resistance cable 1222 to
retract back into the left arm assembly 896.
[0358] FIGS. 36A-36F show a second alternative exercise device 1622
conforming to the aspects of the present invention. The second
alternative exercise device 1622 is similar to the first
alternative exercise device 858. As such, the exercise device 1622
includes a main frame 862' supporting adjustable right and left arm
assemblies 894', 896' and right and left cable-pulley assemblies
898', 900' providing a user interface with right and left
resistance systems 870', 872'. The level of resistance of the
resistance systems 870', 872' can be adjusted in the same manner as
described above with the resistance packs 874 of FIGS. 34A-34D.
Also, as described above, resistance cables 1222' extend from the
right and left arm assemblies 894', 896' to transmission pulleys
1436' of the right and left resistance systems 870', 872'. Further,
the right and left resistance systems 870', 872' include resistance
belts 1442' extending from belt pulleys 1438' to linearizing cams
1448'. As shown in FIGS. 36A-36F, the resistance systems 870', 872'
of the second alternative exercise device 1622 include separate
right and left resistance axles 1624, 1626 that are substantially
vertically oriented. As such, the routing of the resistance belts
of the second alternative exercise device 1622 is oriented
differently from the first alternative exercise device 858. More
particularly, the right and left resistance systems include first
and second directional belt pulleys 1628, 1630 guide the resistance
belts from the belt pulleys 1438' to the linearizing cams
1448'.
[0359] FIGS. 36A-36F illustrate the cable routing from the right
arm assembly 894' to the right resistance system 870'. Various
elements of the exercise device 872' are not shown in FIGS. 36C-36F
for clarity. The resistance cable 1222' extends through the right
arm assembly 894' to the second pulley 1390'. The resistance cable
1222' wraps around a portion of the second pulley 1390' and extends
downward inside the arm support member 944' to the lower
directional pulley 1432'. From the lower direction pulley 1432',
the resistance cable 1222' extends rearward to wrap
counterclockwise (as viewed from the right side of the exercise
device) around and is terminated on the transmission pulley 1436'.
The resistance belt 1442' extends upward and rearward from the belt
pulley 1438' to the first directional belt pulley 1628. From the
first directional belt pulley 1628, the resistance belt 1442'
extends forward to the second directional belt pulley 1630. The
first directional belt pulley has a substantially horizontally
oriented axis of rotation and the second directional belt pulley
has a substantially vertically oriented axis of rotation. The
change in orientation of the axes of rotation between the first and
second directional belt pulleys causes the resistance belt 1442' to
twist as it extends forward from the first directional belt pulley
1628 and change direction as the resistance belt wraps around the
second directional belt pulley 1630. As such, the resistance belt
1442' extends rightward from second directional pulley 1630 to
connect with the linearizing cam 1448' of the right resistance
system 870'.
[0360] FIGS. 36A-36F illustrate the cable routing from the left arm
assembly 896' to the left resistance system 872'. As previously
mentioned, various elements of the exercise device 872' are not
shown in FIGS. 36C-36F for clarity. The resistance cable 1222'
extends through the left arm assembly 896' to the second pulley
1390'. The resistance cable 1222' wraps around a portion of the
second pulley 1390' and extends downward through the arm support
member 944'to the lower directional pulley 1432'. From the lower
direction pulley 1432', the resistance cable 1222' extends rearward
to wrap counterclockwise (as viewed from the right side of the
exercise device) around and is terminated on the transmission
pulley 1436'. The resistance belt 1442'extends upward and forward
from the belt pulley 1438' to the first directional belt pulley
1628. From the first directional belt pulley 1628, the resistance
belt 1442' extends rearward to the second directional belt pulley
1630. The first directional belt pulley has a substantially
horizontally oriented axis of rotation and the second directional
belt pulley has a substantially vertically oriented axis of
rotation. The change in orientation of the axes of rotation between
the first and second directional belt pulleys causes the resistance
belt 1442' to twist as it extends rearward from the first
directional belt pulley 1628 and change direction as the resistance
belt wraps around the second directional belt pulley 1630. As such,
the resistance belt 1442' extends leftward from second directional
pulley 1630 to connect with the linearizing cam 1448' of the left
resistance system 872'.
[0361] Although the various exercise devices described and depicted
herein include resistance systems that utilize resistance packs
with torsional springs as the source of resistance, it is to be
appreciated that the resistance systems on these exercise devices
can utilizes other forms of resistance. For example, some
embodiments of the exercise devices are configured resistance
systems that utilize conventional weight stacks used as the source
of resistance. Still other embodiments utilize linear springs or
other types of resiliently flexible elements as the source of
resistance.
[0362] Although various representative embodiments of this
invention have been described above with a certain degree of
particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerous
alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the
spirit or scope of the inventive subject matter set forth in the
specification and claims. All directional references (e.g., upper,
lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top,
bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and
counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid
the reader's understanding of the embodiments of the present
invention, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the
position, orientation, or use of the invention unless specifically
set forth in the claims. Joinder references (e.g., attached,
coupled, connected, and the like) are to be construed broadly and
may include intermediate members between a connection of elements
and relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references
do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected
and in fixed relation to each other.
[0363] In some instances, components are described with reference
to "ends" having a particular characteristic and/or being connected
with another part. However, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the present invention is not limited to components which
terminate immediately beyond their points of connection with other
parts. Thus, the term "end" should be interpreted broadly, in a
manner that includes areas adjacent, rearward, forward of, or
otherwise near the terminus of a particular element, link,
component, part, member or the like. In methodologies directly or
indirectly set forth herein, various steps and operations are
described in one possible order of operation, but those skilled in
the art will recognize that steps and operations may be rearranged,
replaced, or eliminated without necessarily departing from the
spirit and scope of the present invention. It is intended that all
matter contained in the above description or shown in the
accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and
not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without
departing from the spirit of the invention as defined in the
appended claims.
* * * * *